University of Michigan

What you'll study

The PhD programme emphasises core analytic skills, substantive policy knowledge and original research. Students complete advanced coursework in microeconomic theory, public economics, econometrics and causal inference, statistics for policy analysis, and research design. Training also covers political institutions, implementation and programme evaluation, comparative public policy, and specialised substantive areas such as health policy, education policy, environmental policy, social policy and urban policy.

Typical programme structure includes an initial period of core coursework to build a rigorous methodological foundation, followed by elective courses and seminars focused on substantive fields. Students prepare and pass qualifying examinations or research milestones, produce a field paper or prospectus, and then devote the remainder of the programme to dissertation research under faculty supervision. Methods training often includes hands-on work with administrative data, experimental and quasi-experimental designs, and computational tools used for large-scale data analysis.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally have a strong academic record and demonstrated preparation for advanced quantitative and theoretical work. Typical expectations include:

• A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent); many admitted students hold a master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• Substantial preparation in mathematics, statistics and economics or equivalent quantitative coursework. Courses in calculus, linear algebra, probability/statistics and introductory microeconomics are often expected.
• Evidence of research potential, such as a writing sample, research papers, or relevant professional experience.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can assess research and analytical potential.
• A personal statement outlining research interests, relevant experience and fit with the faculty and resources of the Ford School and broader University of Michigan community.
• International applicants must meet the University’s English language proficiency requirements.

Applicants should consult the Ford School and Rackham Graduate School admissions pages for the most current application materials and any test requirements or waivers.

Career prospects

Graduates from this PhD typically pursue careers in academic research and teaching in public policy, economics, political science and related fields. Many find positions as policy researchers or senior analysts at government agencies, central banks, international organisations (for example, the UN, World Bank or regional development banks), and leading think tanks. Other common career paths include research and data science roles in non-profit organisations, consultancy firms, and private-sector policy or strategy teams. The programme’s emphasis on causal inference and empirical skills also prepares graduates for quantitative roles in technology companies and research-driven enterprises.

Why study at University of Michigan

The doctoral programme is housed within the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy and benefits from the University of Michigan’s broad interdisciplinary strengths. Students can draw on complementary expertise across departments such as economics, political science, public health, social work and law, and on research centres that focus on poverty, education, environment and urban governance. The university provides strong research supports through the Rackham Graduate School, extensive data and library resources, and opportunities for collaboration with policy practitioners in Michigan and beyond. Faculty at the Ford School are active in empirical policy research and mentoring doctoral students through collaborative projects and supervisory committees.