PhD Public Administration and Policy by Distance Learning
University of Birmingham
Student rating
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( 4.2) View reviews

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Different course options
2 options available
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Qualification

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

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Location

University of Birmingham

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

SEP-25

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Duration

3 years

Course info

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Qualification

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Location

University of Birmingham

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

3 years

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Qualification

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Location

University of Birmingham

Study mode

Part Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

6 years

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Subjects

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Politics
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Accounting & Finance
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Course info

The Department of Public Administration and Policy works closely with the world of practice in local government, the voluntary sector and other public service agenciesWe have a vibrant and close-knit international research community of early-career and established researchers. Our engaged scholarship is theoretically-driven, and demonstrates a commitment to methodological pluralism, with particular strengths in qualitative, collaborative and participative approaches.Our distance learning PhD in ...Read more

The Department of Public Administration and Policy works closely with the world of practice in local government, the voluntary sector and other public service agencies

We have a vibrant and close-knit international research community of early-career and established researchers. Our engaged scholarship is theoretically-driven, and demonstrates a commitment to methodological pluralism, with particular strengths in qualitative, collaborative and participative approaches.

Our distance learning PhD in Public Administration and Policy offers those who are unable to live and work on campus on a regular basis the opportunity to conduct original research under the guidance of academic supervisors. You will take a number of research training modules in your first year and may attend further courses offered by the Department or the University that enhance your personal discipline-specific and transferable skills.

Distance learning does present challenges and applicants need to have a high capacity to work independently and in a disciplined fashion to pursue their research goals. However, supervisory teams are there to support students in acquiring the skills and knowledge to complete a thesis. In addition, you will be able to participate in an active research environment through a range of online and hybrid events.

Distance learning students are usually expected to attend one-week visit to the University (it is possible to request an exemption due to extenuating circumstances such as work commitments of caring responsibilities, for example). This visit will take place at the start of your studies during the College’s induction week (which usually takes place in the last week of September). This is a fantastic opportunity to attend a range of training sessions and networking events and meet your peers and supervisory team in person. The College of Social Sciences will make a generous contribution to your accommodation and travel. Your School will write to you to confirm the arrangements of your visit once you have confirmed your offer. Distance Learning students are not required to attend the University for the remainder of their studies but are welcome to visit at their own expense.

The Institute of Local Government Studies (INLOGOV) is incorporated within the Department of Public Administration and Policy (DPAP) and is one of the leading UK and international centres for governance, politics, international development, and public management.

The School of Government offers much more than a degree. As a doctoral student here, you have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of research events with staff and other doctoral students, including a PGR Colloquium and departmental speaker series. In addition, an individual training plan is drawn up to meet the needs of each student, covering coursework and skills development. As such, completing this research degree will cultivate specialist knowledge in your field and professional skills for a range of career settings.

Key stats

Politics
WUSCA ranking:
WUSCA student ranking
These are the 2024 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
44/101
CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
16th
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
13th
What students say
J
Jingyi
31 Jan 24

Our professors are very friendly and professional, they help us a lot,and the experience of learning is pretty..Read more

G
Gokul
26 Jan 23

I think the the university facilities need to make more of an effort to mix crowds of different ethnicities. Most students tend to hang out with people from their own communities...Read more

Entry requirements

Applicants for the distance learning PhD must provide evidence of prior research experience and/or training suitable for their intended programme of study. When they apply, they are expected to consult with their supervisor who can assess their skills, background and capacity to undertake independent study at a distance.

Tuition fees

Students living in

Domestic

£4,778 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Domestic

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

£21,360 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from EU

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

£21,360 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from International

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

IDP Connect

Latest reviews

Latest Public Administration reviews

Public Administration
Public Administration
Policy Studies
J
Jingyi
31 Jan 24
MPA Human Resources
Our professors are very friendly and professional, they help us a lot,and the experience of learning is pretty...
Read more
G
Gokul
26 Jan 23
MA/PGDip Global Public Policy
I think the the university facilities need to make more of an effort to mix crowds of different ethnicities. Most students tend to hang out with people from their own communities....
Read more
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( 4.2) 1,403 reviews
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Uni info

University of Birmingham
University of Birmingham , Birmingham

The University of Birmingham - part of the prestigious Russell Group of universities in the UK – has been helping to develop the...

Student rating
( 4.2) View reviews
CUG ranking
13th
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston, Birmingham Birmingham B15 2TT United Kingdom
Nearest train station: University   0.2 miles away
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