At a glance
60 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The Ph.D. in Public Affairs at Princeton University's School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) prepares students to address complex public policy challenges through evidence-based analysis and innovative approaches. The program is offered within two distinct research clusters: Security Studies and Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (STEP). Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, government, think tanks, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.
Careers
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Public Affairs program are equipped for diverse career paths.
- Academia
- Government agencies
- Policy think tanks
- Nonprofit agencies
- Private sector
Frequently asked questions
- What are the career prospects after completing the Ph.D. in Public Affairs?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, government agencies, policy think tanks, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. The program equips students with skills for evidence-based analysis and innovative approaches to public policy challenges.
- Does the Ph.D. in Public Affairs offer full funding for admitted students?
- Yes, all admitted students receive full tuition coverage, health insurance, and a generous stipend. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the stipend is $54,216.
- What are the main areas of specialization within the Ph.D. in Public Affairs?
- The program is offered within two distinct research clusters: Security Studies and Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (STEP). These specializations focus on developing analytical and research skills for impactful policy work.
- When is the application deadline for the Ph.D. in Public Affairs?
- Applications are accepted for Fall admission only, and the application deadline is December 1, 2025.
- What documents are required to apply for the Ph.D. in Public Affairs program?
- You will need to submit a completed web-based application, scanned transcripts from all previous institutions, three letters of recommendation, and official English proficiency scores if required.
0
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition is covered for all admitted students.
Tuition (home)Tuition is covered for all admitted students.
LivingA generous stipend is provided. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the stipend is $54,216.
All admitted students receive tuition, health insurance, and a stipend.
How to apply
1. Complete the Web ApplicationSubmit the completed online application form.
2. Provide TranscriptsUpload scanned transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended.
3. Submit Letters of RecommendationArrange for three letters of recommendation to be submitted.
4. Submit English Proficiency ScoresIf required, submit official TOEFL (Institution Code: 2672), IELTS, or DET scores.
Scholarships
FellowshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the career prospects after completing the Ph.D. in Public Affairs?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, government agencies, policy think tanks, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. The program equips students with skills for evidence-based analysis and innovative approaches to public policy challenges.
Does the Ph.D. in Public Affairs offer full funding for admitted students?
+
Yes, all admitted students receive full tuition coverage, health insurance, and a generous stipend. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the stipend is $54,216.
What are the main areas of specialization within the Ph.D. in Public Affairs?
+
The program is offered within two distinct research clusters: Security Studies and Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (STEP). These specializations focus on developing analytical and research skills for impactful policy work.
When is the application deadline for the Ph.D. in Public Affairs?
+
Applications are accepted for Fall admission only, and the application deadline is December 1, 2025.
What documents are required to apply for the Ph.D. in Public Affairs program?
+
You will need to submit a completed web-based application, scanned transcripts from all previous institutions, three letters of recommendation, and official English proficiency scores if required.