Online Doctorate of Public Policy

What Will You Study in Liberty University’s Public Policy Doctoral Degree?

• Conduct practical, actionable research that directly impacts public policy
• Evaluate and study how to craft effective public policies that address real-world issues
• Explore the philosophical and theological foundations of the American constitutional government
• Study how key institutions, processes, and individuals shape American public policy
• Understand how to apply Christian values and ethical perspectives in policymaking

In our online public policy doctorate program, you can develop a deep understanding of the core ideas that shape American governance, with a strong emphasis on the concept of independence and its roots in a Christian worldview. You’ll study the beliefs that formed the foundation of the United States as well as how these values influence policymaking today.

Our curriculum also provides a global perspective, allowing you to compare American public policy with systems in other nations — both democratic and non-democratic. You can gain skills in policy analysis, research design, and understanding governmental institutions, which are essential for evaluating and improving policies. Through course assignments like policy discussions, decision-making exercises, and a capstone research project, you can become prepared to apply your knowledge and make an impact in the field of public policy.

Potential Careers for D.P.P. Graduates

• Advocacy organization executive 
• Elected official 
• Government affairs director 
• Legislative aide 
• Nonprofit program director 
• Policy analyst or researcher 
• Public policy advisor 
• Public policy consultant 
• Public service leader (local, state, or federal levels) 

Benefits of Pursuing Your Doctor of Public Policy with Liberty University

As a leader in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create a flexible and affordable education for busy people. Since we have been investing in distance and online learning for decades, our experience has taught us how to streamline our degree options so you can focus on what really matters to you. While many schools offer online degrees, we believe Liberty stands out.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Our online programs are backed by our brick-and-mortar campus – ranked among Niche.com’s Top 5 College Campuses in America – and that commitment to excellence extends to our online students as well. Earning your degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• The majority of tuition for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs has not increased in 9 years. While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university.
• Study under experienced faculty who bring real-world public policy and government expertise to the curriculum.
• Benefit from Liberty University’s Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) accreditation, ensuring a quality education that meets high academic standards.
• Take advantage of a wide range of online resources, including a digital library, academic journals, and research tools, to support your learning.
• Semester-long capstone courses emphasize preparation for professional practice.

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour. Here’s how: 

• If you’re earning or have earned a master’s degree through Liberty, you automatically qualify for the low price (when you begin within 2 years of your master’s completion). 
• If you haven’t earned a graduate degree through Liberty, our Executive Certificate program allows you to pay only $300/credit hour for a postgraduate certificate that can stand alone or potentially count as the first 21 hours of a related doctoral degree. Then pay just $300/credit hour for your doctorate. Learn more!