Is a PhD Necessary After an MA in Public Policy?

11 March 2025, 3:05 pm IST

Higher education always offers greater career prospects. India acquired the fourth position globally, recording more than 24,000 doctoral graduates annually until 2022, and this number will increase over the next couple of years. Thus, a PhD after an MA in Public Policy adds value to one’s profile. 

 

Amity University Online offers 400+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs along with PhD programs. Being India’s first university with UGC-approved online degrees, Amity Online offers a thorough course on MA in Public Policy (NAAC ‘A’ grade). With expert faculty and affordable fees, placement support is also ensured. 

 

An MA and then PhD in Public Policy expands your career options in government, NGOs, and the private sector, leading to roles such as policy analyst, researcher, and consultant. Keep reading to know more!

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MA Public Policy - Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Public Policy & Governance is a UGC-recognised, fully virtual, two-year postgraduate program covering four semesters. Pursuing a Public Policy higher education helps candidates comprehensively understand the subject.  

 

The MA programs online format, designed for students and working professionals, enables learners to enhance essential skills through live case studies and practical projects.  

Why Pursue Public Policy Higher Education at Amity University?

Public policy graduates can explore various career opportunities in international, government, and non-governmental organisations, NGOs, research centres, and academic institutions. Furthermore, a PhD after an MA in Public Policy makes them eligible for research careers, which can bring about significant reforms and enhance academic knowledge.

 

  • Expert-Led Learning – Learn from leading academics and experienced professionals who bring real-world insights to the classroom.
  • Career Development Support – Receive focused guidance on interview techniques and CV development, preparing candidates for a successful job search.
  • Flexible Learning Resources – Access diverse course materials in various formats, including print, audio, digital texts, video lectures, and archival library resources.
  • Comprehensive Placement Assistance – Connect with over 500 potential employers across multiple industries with top-notch placement support.

Eligibility Criteria for Public Policy Higher Education 

The Public Policy higher education course from Amity University guides individuals in navigating complex societal issues and developing effective policy solutions. The fully virtual program prepares them for careers addressing international challenges.

Indian Students

  • A Bachelor's degree (3- or 4-year program) is mandatory. 
  • Diplomas are not accepted. 
  • Proficiency in both spoken and written English is essential.

Foreign Students

  • Applicants must possess either an O Level Certificate (demonstrating 10 years of formal schooling) or an A Level Certificate (demonstrating 12 years of formal schooling).
  • Diplomas are not accepted. 
  • A Bachelor's degree (3 or 4-year program) or equivalent qualification is also required.

 

All Students with Foreign Education

  • The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) offers a Certificate of Equivalence, which is necessary for any student with foreign qualifications seeking admission to an Indian university.  

 

Further information can be found at: https://aiu.ac.in/ 

 

Know More About Our Online Programs

Online Master of Arts (Public Policy & Governance) Curriculum 

Most institutions follow a reliable and well-structured curriculum for an online Public Policy higher education degree, though some variations exist.

Semester 1 

 

  • Indian Political System (PG) [Core Courses]
  • Introduction to Public Policy [Core Courses]
  • Political Theory: An Introduction [Core Courses]
  • Public Administration: Concepts and Theories [Core Courses]
  • Professional Communication
  • NTCC

 

Semester 2

  • Dynamics of State Administration [Core Courses] 
  • Law and Public Policy [Core Courses] 
  • Public Policy-Concepts and Models [Core Courses] 
  • Public Personnel Administration [Core Courses]  
  • Cognitive Analytics & Social Skills for Professional Development 
  • NTCC

Semester 3

  • Public Policy and Governance [Core Courses] 
  • Globalisation and Public Policy [Core Courses] 
  • Civil Services in India [Core Courses] 
  • Leadership and Administrative Thinkers [Specialisation Elective Courses Select any 2]
  • Economics and Public Policy [Specialisation Elective Courses - Select any 2] 
  • Urban and Rural Development in India [Specialisation Elective Courses - Select any 2]
  • Professional Ethics  
  • NTCC

Semester 4

  • Policy Analysis and Evaluation [Specialisation Elective Courses - Select any 3] 
  • Civil Society and Public Action [Specialisation Elective Courses - Select any 3] 
  • E-Governance [Specialisation Elective Courses - Select any 3]  
  • Public Finance [Specialisation Elective Courses - Select any 3] 
  • Public Policy and Diplomacy [Specialisation Elective Courses - Select any 3]  
  • NTC

Why Choose a Public Policy Higher Education (MA, PhD or Both) Program?

Public Policy higher education equips candidates with critical thinking, research, and leadership skills. An MA prepares professionals for policy analysis, governance, and strategic decision-making. A PhD solely focuses on advanced research, influencing large-scale academic contributions. 

 

Both degrees offer various career opportunities in government, NGOs, global organisations, and research institutions. Graduates can shape policies, drive social impact, and lead change in public and private sectors. Public policy higher education can offer candidates better job prospects, increased salary potential, and professional growth in policymaking and governance.

 

  • Expert Faculty:  Students learn from globally recognised public policy professionals.
  • Dynamic Learning: The online course offers an engaging and effective online experience.
  • Flexible Study:  Students access 350+ hours of on-demand video lectures, fitting study around their lives.
  • Practical Skills:  Students develop expertise through live projects and case studies.

 Also Read:- How Does Amity Online’s MA in Public Policy Prepare Students for Government Jobs?

Best Career after MA followed by PhD in Public Policy

 

career after an MA in Public Policy opens up a great range of opportunities essential to shaping society's future.  An MA prepares professionals for policy analysis and management. A PhD focuses on research and leadership, influencing large-scale policy reforms. Both paths drive meaningful change. Both together can open multiple opportunities, including:

 

  • Policy Advisor: They guide government and organisations on policy.
  • Public Policy Consultant: Professionals advise diverse sectors on policy issues.
  • Government Affairs Specialist: These individuals represent organisations before the government.
  • Policy Research Director: As a director, they lead policy-focused research initiatives.
  • Program Manager: These personnel effectively manage public programs.
  • Legislative Support: Individuals here contribute to legislation through research.

 

The Public Policy research careers include the following: 

  • Policy Analyst
  • Research Associate
  • Program Evaluator
  • Data Scientist

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Is a PhD Mandatory for Policy Jobs?

PhD after an MA in Public Policy isn't mandatory, though it can benefit research-focused roles, which help in:

 

  • Data archiving and interpretation for informed decisions.
  • Collaborative rollout planning.
  • Gaining specialised knowledge in policy areas.
  • Analysing past policy successes and failures.
  • Developing strong interpersonal and public speaking skills.
  • Guiding policy decisions and career advancement.
  • Thorough research and informed policymaking.
  • Understanding ethical principles for positive impact.

 

Conclusion

 

PhD after an MA in Public Policy enhances analytical and investigative skills, preparing students for diverse and influential career paths. When they understand the concepts in deep, they can create and implement required policies in their workplaces.  

They support legislators by drafting legislation, conducting policy research, and providing well-informed recommendations. With the rise of Online Education, professionals can now pursue advanced studies more flexibly. Although not mandatory, a Public Policy PhD after an MBA builds a strong foundation for a fulfilling career.

 

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