Course summary

Curious about how public administration, policy, and governance impact societies and communities? Become part of our dynamic research community in the Department of Public Administration and Policy. Our PhD in Public Administration and Policy offers you the chance to conduct pioneering research, develop essential skills, and thrive in a supportive academic community. With personalised support from leading academics, you will develop the expertise necessary to undertake excellent and impactful research in the fields of public administration, policy and governance. Get ready for influential roles in academia, government, civil society organisations, and beyond. Why study this course at the University of Birmingham? Our PhD in Public Administration and Policy allows you to conduct original research with top academics, receive personalised training, and become part of a leading research community. For further details and examples of doctoral research projects, please check our Staff directory and Research page, and current PhD student profiles. We welcome PhD students from all over the world, conducting fascinating research in a wide range of topics in the fields of public administration, policy and governance. The Department of Public Administration and Policy (DPAP) produces world-leading research, teaching, and impact in public administration, policy and governance. DPAP has a vibrant and close-knit international research community of pre- and post-doctoral early-career researchers, and internationally recognised leading academics. Our engaged scholarship is theoretically-driven, and demonstrates a commitment to methodological pluralism, with particular strengths in qualitative, collaborative and participative approaches. DPAP has a proud tradition of fostering knowledge exchange across research and practice, and informing change across diverse levels of governance, types of stakeholders, and global contexts. Academics at DPAP have connections with a wide range of local authorities and other governmental, voluntary sector and research bodies in the UK and abroad. With a strong commitment to impactful research, the department offers tailored supervision and fosters collaboration between students, staff, and external partners, driving forward innovative solutions to today’s pressing public policy issues. We are committed to inclusive research leadership, with our PhD students actively contributing to the Department’s research life and community. Monthly PhD seminars offer a supportive environment for presenting projects and learning from each other. In addition, the Department organises a range of other research activities, including writing retreats, ‘work-in-progress’ sessions, and ad hoc thematic sessions, that bring PhD students and staff together. DPAP is part of the School of Government, alongside the Department of Political Science and International and International Studies. The School is home to more than 80 full-time academic staff, more than 1,200 undergraduate and taught postgraduate students, and more than 70 doctoral researchers. At the School level, you will receive research training and have the opportunity to join PGR talks, social events and the annual School of Government PGR Conference. Career opportunities Our PhD in Public Administration and Policy offers an exceptional opportunity to influence change across diverse levels of governance, types of stakeholders, and global contexts. You will gain advanced research skills and expertise, opening doors to roles in academia, government, and the private and voluntary sectors. Personalised training and extensive career support from DPAP, the School of Government and the wider University will ensure you are equipped for leadership positions and real-world impact in your chosen field.