Doctor of Public Policy Online Shape the Future of Policy with Advanced Leadership and Research Skills

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Degree Options
100% online, 8-week courses
Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total
Become a Leading Voice in Public Policy and Drive Meaningful Change with Liberty’s Doctorate of Public Policy
If you are passionate about creating a positive impact through policy change and want to see your research directly influence public debates, Liberty University’s online Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) could be your next step. This program is designed to help equip you with the tools needed to evaluate and analyze policy initiatives, allowing you to contribute directly to solving pressing public issues. Unlike traditional academic programs focused solely on theory, the D.P.P. emphasizes practical, actionable research that speaks directly to the current policy environment and its challenges.
With a strong focus on American public policy, this degree can help deepen your understanding of the processes, institutions, and key actors involved in policy development and implementation. You can explore the theological and philosophical roots of American constitutional government and engage with both classic texts and cutting-edge research under the mentorship of experienced faculty who bring a blend of academic rigor and real-world expertise to instruction. This unique approach can help you bridge the gap between theoretical analysis and practical application, preparing you to effectively address policy problems from both empirical and ethical perspectives.
Whether you envision yourself shaping policy at the national, state, or local level; serving in advocacy organizations; or teaching the next generation of leaders, Liberty’s D.P.P. program can help provide you with the knowledge and expertise to make a difference. You can learn to analyze policy through the lens of the American constitutional tradition, considering the foundational principles of liberty and the Christian values that have influenced the development of the United States. This comprehensive perspective can help empower you to make informed contributions that uphold and enhance the ideals of constitutional governance and public service.





What is a D.P.P.?
A Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) is a professional doctoral degree designed to help prepare you for advanced roles in public policy analysis, implementation, and leadership. Unlike a PhD, which is typically research-focused, the D.P.P. emphasizes practical application, helping equip you with the skills to address complex policy issues; influence public decision-making; and pursue leadership in government, nonprofit, or private sector settings. Our program includes courses in policy analysis, competing leadership vision, government relations, and specialized topics like foreign policy or education policy, culminating in capstone courses focused on solving real-world policy challenges.
What Will You Study in Our Public Policy Online Doctorate Degree?
In Liberty University’s public policy online doctorate program, you will study the important ideas that have shaped the American government, with a focus on the role of liberty in our system. This doctorate of public policy program also explores how these ideas came from a Christian worldview and were shared by the Protestant founders of the United States. You’ll study the beliefs and values that form the foundation of American constitutional government. Additionally, the program encourages you to compare the American public policy process to those of other countries, including both democratic and non-democratic systems, so you get a global view of how governments work.
The D.P.P. curriculum can help you understand public policy institutions, political leaders, and the challenges facing modern government. You’ll study both historical and current issues in public policy, including topics like the founding era, federalism, and how federal and state governments work together. You can also explore different ideas about leadership and statesmanship. This program can help you develop strong skills in policy analysis, research design, and research methods, which are important tools for evaluating and improving policies.
Throughout the program, you’ll have chances to take part in policy discussions, practice making decisions like a policymaker, and apply what you’ve studied to real-world issues presented by your professors. The D.P.P. curriculum ends with a capstone project where you will conduct your own research on a public policy topic that interests you. This project is a chance to show what you know and make a real contribution to the field of public policy. Whether you want to work in government, nonprofit organizations, or public affairs, this program can help prepare you to make a difference in shaping public policy decisions.
Featured Courses
Degree Information
- This program falls under the Helms School of Government.
- View the Graduate Government Course Guides (login required).
- Semester-long capstone courses emphasize preparation for professional practice.
Why Choose Liberty's Doctor in Public Policy Degree?
Choosing Liberty for your doctorate in public policy means joining a program that is committed to your academic, professional, and personal success. Our D.P.P. degree is designed to help you thrive in the real world – whether you want to advance in your current career or embark on a new professional path in public policy. At Liberty, we provide flexible courses and practical training that can help equip you for leadership in the public policy field.
Our Doctor of Public Policy program is offered entirely online, giving you the flexibility to balance your education with your current responsibilities. With no set login times, you can work your assignment deadlines into your busy schedule, allowing you to prioritize other important commitments, such as work and family. Whether you’re aiming to gain additional credentials for your current role or prepare for a new career in government, nonprofit leadership, or public affairs, our D.P.P. degree can help provide the tools and knowledge to take the next steps in your career journey.
Liberty’s D.P.P. curriculum offers rigorous and practical training to help prepare you for the complexities of public policy. Our respected credentials – with regional accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) – ensure that your degree meets high academic standards.
Our faculty brings years of experience in public policy, political science, and leadership, providing you with real-world insights and guidance throughout your academic journey. You will have the opportunity to learn from professionals who are not only experts in their field but also committed to helping you achieve your goals.

Backed by a brick-and-mortar campus ranked among Niche.com's Top 5 College Campuses in America
What Sets Us Apart?
- Private Nonprofit University
- 600+ Online Degrees
- No Standardized Testing for Admission
- Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
- Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree
Potential Career Opportunities for Doctor of Public Policy 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)
Degree Options for Our Doctor of Public Policy Online Degree
Liberty University’s online Doctor of Public Policy degree offers a variety of specializations, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests and career goals. Whether you are interested in foreign policy, education policy, or economic policy, each specialization provides focused expertise to help you make a significant impact in your chosen field.
Generalized Track (No Specialization)
Our Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) generalized track* offers you the ability to mix and match elective courses, allowing you to create a personalized program that fits your career goals.
View the Degree Completion Plan.
*Please note that this is not a specialization. Any reference using the term “General” is the main degree and is only used to differentiate from other specializations.
Chinese Affairs
In Liberty’s Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) – Chinese Affairs program, you can gain a deep understanding of the political, economic, and cultural dynamics that shape China’s role in the global landscape. You’ll explore topics such as Chinese governance, foreign policy, economic strategies, and the historical context of China’s development. This program can help you analyze how Chinese policies impact international relations and global economics, helping to prepare you to work in roles that require expertise in Chinese affairs.
View the Degree Completion Plan.
Economic Policy
In our Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) – Economic Policy program, you will explore the key principles of economic theory and their impact on public policy decisions. You’ll study how to analyze economic policies, assess fiscal and monetary strategies, and understand the complexities of economic systems at both the national and international levels. This program can help you develop the skills to evaluate government programs, understand regulatory impacts, and make informed recommendations that address economic challenges.
View the Degree Completion Plan.
Education Policy
In Liberty University’s Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) – Education Policy program, you will explore the principles and challenges that shape educational systems and policies. You can learn about the development, implementation, and evaluation of education policies at local, state, and national levels. The education policy specialization can help you analyze the impact of policy decisions on students, educators, and communities and understand the economic, social, and political factors that influence education.
View the Degree Completion Plan.
Foreign Policy
In the Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) – Foreign Policy specialization, you will study the complexities of international relations, diplomacy, and global governance. You’ll explore how to analyze foreign policy decisions, understand the role of international organizations, and evaluate the impact of global political and economic trends. This program can help you develop a deep understanding of how countries interact on the world stage, the strategies behind diplomatic negotiations, and the tools to address international challenges.
View the Degree Completion Plan.
National Security Policy
Liberty’s Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) – National Security Policy can help you explore the critical issues and strategies related to safeguarding national interests. You can explore the development and implementation of national security policies; assess threats from both domestic and international perspectives; and understand the role of intelligence, defense, and law enforcement in maintaining security. The national security policy specialization can help you analyze the complexities of security challenges, from terrorism and cyber threats to geopolitical conflicts.
View the Degree Completion Plan.
Social Policy
Our Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) – Social Policy program helps you explore the development, implementation, and evaluation of policies that address social issues affecting communities. You can learn about topics such as healthcare, education, welfare, and housing, analyzing how social policies impact different populations. This program can help you understand the economic, cultural, and political factors that shape social policy decisions and equip you with skills in research, data analysis, and program evaluation.
View the Degree Completion Plan.

Not sure what to choose?
Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.
Tuition & Aid
Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.
Doctoral Full Time | $595/Credit |
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Doctoral Part Time | $650/Credit |
Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour (learn more).
Tuition rates may change annually. For the most current information, please visit our LU Tuition Cost page.
All Tuition & Fees
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Admission Information for Our Online Doctorate of Public Policy
Admission Requirements
- Apply online or over the phone with an admissions counselor by calling (800) 424-9596.
- A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required).
- Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
- Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy.
Preliminary Acceptance
If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:
- Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
- Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
- Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
- Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.
Transcript Policies
Official College Transcript Policy
An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to luoverify@liberty.edu.
Admissions Office Contact Information
Liberty University Online Admissions Verification
1971 University Blvd.
Lynchburg, VA 24515
Military
Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.
Who May Qualify?
- Active Duty
- Reserve/National Guard
- Veterans/Retirees
- Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees
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. Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.
Tuition rates may change annually. For the most current information, please visit our LU Tuition Cost page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Doctor of Public Policy Degree
What is the difference between a PhD in Public Policy and a D.P.P.?
The primary difference between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Policy and a Doctor of Public Policy (D.P.P.) lies in their focus and intended outcomes.
A PhD in Public Policy is a research-intensive degree aimed at preparing you for careers in academia, advanced research, and theoretical analysis. It emphasizes the development of new knowledge through original research, with a strong focus on quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, think tanks, or policy research institutions.
In contrast, a D.P.P is a professional doctorate that focuses on the practical application of policy knowledge in real-world settings. It is designed for individuals looking to take on leadership, decision-making, and policy implementation roles within government, nonprofits, or the private sector. The D.P.P. program emphasizes solving real policy problems, policy management, and leadership, making it more suited for those interested in directly impacting policy practice rather than conducting theoretical research.
What is public policy?
Public policy refers to the set of laws, regulations, actions, and decisions made by governments and public authorities to address issues affecting society. It is essentially how government addresses public problems and meets the needs of its citizens. Public policy encompasses a wide range of areas, such as health, education, economy, environment, and security.
The process of creating public policy involves identifying societal issues, analyzing potential solutions, and implementing actions through regulations, programs, or initiatives. Policymakers, such as elected officials, public administrators, and experts, work together to design policies that aim to improve public welfare, promote fairness, and ensure effective governance.
Public policy plays a crucial role in shaping the quality of life in society, influencing everything from healthcare access and economic growth to environmental protection and social justice.
Who makes public policy?
Public policy is made by a variety of actors at different levels of government, each playing a crucial role in shaping and implementing policies that impact society. The key players involved in making public policy include elected officials, government agencies, courts, special interest and advocacy groups, and policy experts.
Public policy is the result of collaboration and negotiation among these various actors, each contributing to the creation and implementation of policies designed to address society’s needs and challenges.
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