PhD Planning and Public Affairs at University of Oregon

Programme overview

The PhD trains students to conduct original research that informs scholarship, policy and practice. It is interdisciplinary and community-engaged, with research in Sustainable Cities and Transportation, Access and Equity, and Nonprofit, Philanthropic and Social Enterprise, and students choose a track in community and regional planning, nonprofit management, or public administration and public policy.

Faculty: College of Design | Department: Planning, Public Policy and Management | Duration: Not stated (81 credits); four years of funding | Intake: Next cohort Fall 2028; applications open September 2027; about 2-3 admits per year | Location: Eugene, OR, United States

What you will study

The 81 credits comprise a 16-credit methods plan, a 36-credit disciplinary track approved by the pre-dissertation advisory committee, 3 credits of career development (internship, special problems or seminar) and a 26-credit dissertation.

Career pathways

Prepares students for academic and/or research careers.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A master's degree in planning, public policy, public administration, nonprofit management or a related field is required. Application includes a resume, a statement on PhD goals, fit and research area, an abstract of research interests, two named faculty with reasons, three letters of recommendation (two or more from faculty), a writing sample, and unofficial transcripts. GRE optional (GMAT also accepted). English proficiency proof for non-native speakers. Admission depends on a match with at least two PPPM faculty. Next cohort starts Fall 2028 with applications opening September 2027; offers targeted for early February.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Each graduate programme sets its own application deadlines and required materials.

Graduate application fee: $70 for domestic applicants and $90 for international applicants for degree-seeking programmes; each doctoral programme sets its own deadlines.

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