Where rigorous research meets public purpose.

Today’s most urgent issues are complex and interconnected. Approach them with curiosity, evidence, and innovation to create lasting impact.

In partnership with the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (Harvard Griffin GSAS), Harvard Kennedy School offers doctoral programs that cross disciplines and draw on the breadth of Harvard’s expertise.

Prepare for a career in academia or policymaking that calls for deep expertise in economics, political science, and social policy. You’ll work with engaged faculty members and peers who share your commitment to rigorous inquiry and public purpose, and develop the analytical tools and research insight to ask better questions—and pursue answers that matter.


Explore our programs

 

PhD in Public Policy 

This program equips scholars with advanced training in economics, political science, judgment and decision-making, or science and technology, to influence policy across academia, government, and the private sector.

About the Public Policy PhD
 

PhD in Health Policy

This interdisciplinary program trains scholars to tackle complex health challenges through rigorous research and prepares them for leadership in policy, academia, and practice.

About the Health Policy PhD
 

PhD in Social Policy

This program combines deep disciplinary grounding in political science or sociology with multidisciplinary research on critical issues such as inequality, race, gender, immigration, and education.

About the Social Policy PhD
Roni Yadlin smiling and wearing a blue sleeveless blouse
“I have always wanted what I study to be applicable to the real world. A policy school is deliberate about looking at problems and coming up with actionable solutions.”
Roni Yadlin PhD in Public Policy 2025

Doctoral Program Admissions

Doctoral Programs at Harvard Kennedy School are jointly administered with Harvard Griffin GSAS. Learn about admissions requirements and how to apply. 


Learn more about the HKS community

Apply to the Doctoral Programs
Read about admissions requirements for your Public Policy, Health Policy, or Social Policy PhD.
How to Apply
Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
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