UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN · UNITED STATES
Joint PhD in Public Policy with Economics, Political Science, or Sociology
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€26k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Five years of guaranteed funding covering tuition, health insurance, and stipend.Generous Funding
- Deep integration into a top-ranked social science department.Disciplinary Focus
- Emphasis on sophisticated analytical and empirical methods.Empirical Methods
- Extensive research training opportunities, including assistantships and seminars.Research Opportunities
- Interdisciplinary approach to policy analysis with world-renowned faculty.Interdisciplinary Approach
- Graduates hold positions at leading universities and research institutions.Successful Alumni
This joint doctoral program offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to public policy, combining rigorous disciplinary training in Economics, Political Science, or Sociology with a deep focus on public policy research. Students become full members of their chosen social science department while also engaging with the Ford School's vibrant public policy community. The program is designed for individuals seeking research careers who are committed to using advanced social science tools to address critical policy questions.
Curriculum
Students complete a PhD in Economics, Political Science, or Sociology while also participating in the Ford School's public policy program. The first two years involve intensive coursework in theory and methods within the chosen disciplinary department. Students are expected to develop advanced analytical skills and engage in research.
- Year 1-2
- Disciplinary Theory and Methods Courses
- Public Policy Seminars
- Research Assistantship (opportunity)
- Year 3
- Independent Research Paper
Careers
Graduates of the joint PhD program have achieved significant success in academia, research, and public service. The program equips students with the skills to secure tenure-track faculty positions at prestigious universities, obtain postdoctoral fellowships, and take on research roles in leading organizations.
- Professor
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Consultant
- Government Official
- Foundation Program Officer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in this PhD program?
- For the 2025-26 academic year, full-time international graduate tuition is $30,685 per academic year, plus mandatory fees of $241.19. Funding packages typically cover tuition, health insurance, and a stipend.
- How long does the Joint PhD program typically take to complete?
- The program involves intensive coursework in the first two years, followed by independent research. Specific program duration depends on the chosen disciplinary department and research progress.
- What are the application deadlines for the Joint PhD in Public Policy?
- Applications typically open in the Fall and close in December/January for Fall admission. Please refer to the departmental graduate program pages for exact dates.
- What are the general entry requirements for this program?
- A strong undergraduate record is required, and specific prerequisites may vary by disciplinary department (Economics, Political Science, Sociology). You must also meet the English proficiency requirements if applicable.
- What kind of funding is available for PhD students?
- The program offers five years of guaranteed funding covering tuition, health insurance, and a stipend. Funding is provided through fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships.
- How do I apply to this joint PhD program?
- You should apply directly to the University of Michigan through the relevant doctoral program in Economics, Political Science, or Sociology, indicating your interest in the joint public policy program. Prepare all required documents as specified by the department.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA strong undergraduate record is required. Specific requirements may vary by disciplinary department (Economics, Political Science, Sociology).
Specific admission requirements and details for each joint program (Economics and Public Policy, Political Science and Public Policy, Sociology and Public Policy) can be found on the respective departmental graduate program pages. Applicants are encouraged to consult the PhD Program Handbook for comprehensive information.
Fees
Tuition (international)Full-Time Graduate Tuition (Fall/Winter): $30,685 per academic year. Mandatory Fees: $241.19 per academic year.
Tuition (home)Full-Time Graduate Tuition (Fall/Winter): $15,204 per academic year. Mandatory Fees: $241.19 per academic year.
Living—
Tuition and fees are for the 2025-26 academic year and are based on full-time enrollment. Please refer to the University of Michigan's Office of the Registrar for the most up-to-date figures and additional fee information. Funding packages typically cover tuition, health insurance, and a stipend.
How to apply
1. Choose Your SpecializationDecide whether you wish to pursue the joint PhD in Public Policy with Economics, Political Science, or Sociology.
2. Review Departmental RequirementsVisit the websites of the Economics, Political Science, or Sociology departments for specific admission criteria, prerequisites, and application instructions.
3. Prepare Application MaterialsGather required documents, including academic transcripts, GRE scores (if required by the department), letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and English proficiency test scores (if applicable).
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form and all supporting documents by the specified departmental deadline.
5. Application ReviewApplications are reviewed by the faculty in both the disciplinary department and the Ford School. Successful candidates will be invited for interviews.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in this PhD program?
+
For the 2025-26 academic year, full-time international graduate tuition is $30,685 per academic year, plus mandatory fees of $241.19. Funding packages typically cover tuition, health insurance, and a stipend.
How long does the Joint PhD program typically take to complete?
+
The program involves intensive coursework in the first two years, followed by independent research. Specific program duration depends on the chosen disciplinary department and research progress.
What are the application deadlines for the Joint PhD in Public Policy?
+
Applications typically open in the Fall and close in December/January for Fall admission. Please refer to the departmental graduate program pages for exact dates.
What are the general entry requirements for this program?
+
A strong undergraduate record is required, and specific prerequisites may vary by disciplinary department (Economics, Political Science, Sociology). You must also meet the English proficiency requirements if applicable.
What kind of funding is available for PhD students?
+
The program offers five years of guaranteed funding covering tuition, health insurance, and a stipend. Funding is provided through fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships.
How do I apply to this joint PhD program?
+
You should apply directly to the University of Michigan through the relevant doctoral program in Economics, Political Science, or Sociology, indicating your interest in the joint public policy program. Prepare all required documents as specified by the department.