Ph.D. Graduate Student in Policy Analysis
Overview
Become a Ph.D. graduate student in Policy Analysis! Work at RAND while you go through the program and gain valuable on-the-job training in policy analysis.
The Pardee RAND Graduate School offers a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) and Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Policy Analysis. Both degrees combine a rigorous curriculum with real-world training at a global policy research organization.
All Pardee RAND students work side-by-side with RAND experts as members of interdisciplinary research teams, creating a real impact on policy while earning their degree. As part of our unique degree program —and graduate knowing they are ready to tackle the hardest policy challenges—because they already have!
Unlike other graduate programs, Pardee RAND faculty are RAND policy experts, deeply embedded in real-world decision-making circles. They are in the room where critical decisions happen and bring their unparalleled practical experience into your class. We are the only public policy graduate program backed by the brainpower and resources of a think tank.
We are looking for approximately 10-20 new Ph.D. students each year.
Learn more about our academic programs »
Financial Package
Our students are supported by a combination of fellowships and scholarships that cover tuition, include a living stipend, and can enable them to graduate debt-free.
The financial package for Ph.D. students includes:
- Scholarships and research fellowships that cover the cost of tuition and offer a living stipend
- Health insurance and other benefits, including paid parental leave
- Dissertation support and training in grant and proposal writing
- Research fellowship is earned by working on RAND projects of the student's choice that gives students a stipend to cover living expenses for the length of the program. Students earn upward of $30,000 in their first year and beyond
Learn more about our generous financial support »
Qualifications
Our students come from diverse personal and academic backgrounds, and about a third of our students come from outside the U.S. We welcome applicants from all majors and concentrations.
Our applicants must:
- be available to participate in our full-time combined research-and-study program at RAND’s headquarters in Santa Monica, California
- have completed a bachelor’s degree; an advanced degree and/or some work experience is desired
- demonstrate strong research skills; all majors and disciplines welcome
Application Elements
- Resume or CV
- One statement of interest (750 words max)
- Two letters of recommendation (professional or academic sources)
- Test scores on the GRE or GMAT optional; TOEFL for some international students
- Unofficial transcripts
Learn more about our admissions process »
Attend a virtual admissions event or office hours
Please join us at a host of admissions events and office hours that provide an overview of the Ph.D. in Policy Analysis, the admissions process, and our degree requirements. You will have an opportunity to hear current students describe their experiences and share their perspectives on the program.
Sign up to receive more information
If you are interested in receiving preliminary feedback on your candidacy prior to investing your time in the 2024 admissions process, please consider submitting a pre-application.
Contact us
If you have any questions or wish to be in touch, please contact us at admissions@pardeerand.edu.