PhD in Public and Social Policy at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University

United States of America, Saint Louis

University Rank:#951

The Public and Social Policy at Saint Louis University is a PhD program designed for students who want to build the knowledge and skills required for careers in this field. Delivered on campus at the university's main campus in Saint Louis , United States of America, the program is taught in English and takes 4 years to complete. Students study in a Full Time environment while preparing for future professional opportunities. The next intake starts on August 23, 2027.

About PhD in Public and Social Policy

Saint Louis University's public and social policy doctoral program provides a Catholic, Jesuit education to prepare students to engage with significant social and political problems. The program prepares students to tackle some of the biggest issues of the times, including persistent poverty both in American cities and in countries around the world, urban renewal, racial and ethnic inequality, and health disparities.

SLU's Ph.D. in public and social policy prepares students for scholarly and leadership roles in government, universities, research and public service organizations by providing multiple disciplinary perspectives, advanced methodological skills and the ability to conduct original research in an academic or applied setting. Students will learn how quality research can inform both basic and policy-related questions. They will have the ability to share their knowledge with academic and non-academic audiences.

Graduates will be able to identify and evaluate ethical problems related to research and public policy.
Graduates will be able to design and execute methodologically sound policy research that extends the knowledge of both policy and other social science disciplines.
Graduates will be able to evaluate, critique, and synthesize competing theoretical explanations in their chosen area of study.
Graduates will be able to identify effects of forms of inequality (racial, gender, class, spatial, etc.) and policy.
Graduates will be able to apply research skills to address social problems.

Requirements and Admission Criteria for PhD in Public and Social Policy at Saint Louis University

Entry Requirements

Completed application
Undergraduate degree (most successful applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or better)
Official transcript from a degree-granting institution
Statement of purpose (about 500 words)
Resume or curriculum vitae
External reference recommendations (encouraged but not required)

Upon admission, a new student must successfully complete a virtual meeting with their academic coach to be enrolled in first term coursework.

• Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.

English Requirements

PTEMin 54
IELTSMin 6.5
TOEFLMin 80

Career Opportunities after Completing PhD in Public and Social Policy

Graduates from the public and social policy program have become leaders in the private and public sectors, excelling in such areas as business, commerce, governmental affairs, health and human services, criminal justice and academia.

Tuition and Fee Information for PhD in Public and Social Policy at Saint Louis University

Application Fee 65

How to Apply for PhD in Public and Social Policy at Saint Louis University

Step 1: Accept or decline your admission

If you applied using SLU’s online graduate application, you can notify us about your decision to accept or decline your admission by logging in and clicking on “Manage Your Account.” From there, you can access the decision form.

If you’ve used a third-party, centralized application to apply — such as SOPHAS for public health programs or CASPA for physician administration programs — you’ll need to email us directly at [email protected] with your decision.

Step 2: Set up your SLU Net ID

Follow these step-by-step instructions to set up your SLU Net ID.

Step 3: Log into MySLU

Log into mySLU at auth.slu.edu. Use your SLU Net ID and SLU Net Password, then click "Login." Click on the "Tools" tab to find links to systems, such as Banner Self-Service and other SLU applications and systems.

When logging in for the first time, you will be directed to set up your multi-factor authentication. You will need to log in upon completing that process.

Step 4: Check with your academic department

Contact your department in order to receive enrollment directions, important dates and other information specific to your graduate program. You can also check the University calendar.

Step 5: Read the Saint Louis University Graduate Catalog

The Saint Louis University Graduate Catalog has useful information about life at SLU as a graduate student, including campus resources, academic policies and program curricula.

Step 6: Submit your immunization and health insurance forms

If you decide to attend SLU, you will need to submit your immunization records and health history. You will also need to submit a health plan enrollment/waiver form.

Step 7: Visit parking and card services to obtain your SLU ID card

You’ll use your SLU ID card to access student services and campus buildings such as the library. Make sure to bring a photo ID, along with a copy of your class schedule.

Step 8: Finalize your financial aid

If you plan to take out student loans, make sure you’ve filled out your FAFSA for the current year. Contact student financial services with any questions. For questions about assistantships, contact your program.

PhD in Public and Social Policy at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University

United States of America, Saint Louis