This PhD is ideal for candidates with a strong academic background and a passion for applied research in public policy. It will suit those seeking to bridge academic inquiry and real-world policy challenges. Students will benefit from close links with the department’s academic and research staff, which will provide them the support to develop as independent researchers and future policymakers. Students will work independently under the guidance of a supervisor whose research expertise will fall closely within the aims of your planned PhD research topic.
At the end of the PhD, students submit a thesis for examination. The thesis must represent a significant contribution to learning, for example through the discovery of new knowledge, the connection of previously unrelated facts, the development of a new theory, or the revision of older views, and must take account of previously published work on the subject.
Learning outcomes
The Cambridge PhD is designed to prepare students for careers as professional researchers or future policy makers. As well as writing a thesis that will represent a significant contribution to learning, the course will help students develop the core skills valued by both academic and non-academic employers. By the end of their studies, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
Conceptualise hypotheses or research questions and create new knowledge through original research at the forefront of public policy innovation.
Expertly employ relevant research methods to undertake applied research at an advanced level such that they can discover, analyse and evaluate evidence from a wide range of sources, and reach a level of quality meriting scholarly publication.
Plan, design and implement a research project that is responsive to the requirements of the analysis of public policy and contribute new knowledge to the field.
Demonstrate the ability to understand and deploy high-level policy theory and show an ability to select and use appropriately relevant research methods and analytical approaches.
Embody high ethical and professional standards in their research.
Communicate ideas and conclusions to a variety of specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Work collaboratively with others, building a strong professional network.
Continuing
Both the MPhil in Public Policy and the MPhil in Digital Policy courses provide a strong foundation in research skills, subject knowledge, and academic writing, which are essential for doctoral study. Progression is not automatic from the MPhil to PhD, and current Cambridge students will be required to submit a new application for the PhD course. As with new applicants, current MPhil students will be required to meet the same academic entry requirements.
Open Days
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Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars
Practical, step-by-step information about preparing a strong application for postgraduate study. Find out more on the Discover Cambridge webpage.
Virtual Postgraduate Open Days
The November Open Days focus on subject and course information. Webinar recordings are available until May.
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