Doctor of Public Policy
About Our Program
The Doctor of Public Policy program is a tier-one, practice-oriented doctoral degree designed for experienced professionals who are committed to shaping policy and improving community outcomes. Grounded in applied research, analytical skill-building, and strategic communication, the program prepares students to navigate complex policy environments and develop solutions to today’s most pressing social, economic, and governance challenges. Through a cohort-based model, students engage in collaborative learning that integrates academic theory with practical application.
Designed for working professionals, the program is delivered in a hybrid format that blends online coursework, in-person sessions, and experiential learning opportunities—including a signature policy immersion trip to Washington, D.C. Students learn from faculty and industry experts and receive personalized support from a distinguished policy advisor and program coach. Students complete an applied culminating project aligned with their individual policy area of interest. This approach equips graduates to translate theory into actionable, high-impact policy solutions and to influence policy at local, state, and national levels.
The program attracts leaders from diverse sectors—including public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private industry—who are driven to improve outcomes in areas such as water utilization, affordable housing, business regulation, and national policy development. From addressing community-level concerns to shaping state and national policy systems, students gain the analytical and strategic tools needed to craft evidence-informed solutions that promote resilient and thriving communities.
Six Reasons to Choose UNLV for Your Doctor of Public Policy Degree
- A Curriculum Designed for Professional Advancement: What truly sets this program apart is its combination of flexibility, hands-on experience, and professional networking. Students participate in a cohort model, building meaningful connections with peers and faculty, while learning from instructors who are not only experts in their fields but also actively engaged in shaping public policy.
- A Community of Experienced, Mission-Driven Professionals: Our program is designed for experienced professionals, from mid-career to executive levels, who are ready to expand their influence and drive strategic policy decisions. Our students' professional and life experiences enrich classroom discussions and applied projects. They are motivated, outcome-focused, and committed to creating meaningful impact within their organizations and the communities they serve.
- Leverage the Dynamic Nature of Our State and City: Students from across the U.S. have enrolled in UNLV’s program because Nevada itself serves as a dynamic living laboratory for our students. The combination of metropolitan areas to rural communities across Nevada offers a robust learning ground for students. The national demographic makeup will mirror what happens in Nevada. The doctorate of public policy curriculum is adaptable for communities around the U.S.
- Preparation to Drive Meaningful Policy Impact: Our program goes beyond observation—students acquire the knowledge, tools, and practical experience needed to actively shape policy, influencing communities locally, driving statewide initiatives, and contributing to national policy discussions. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are prepared to create meaningful change at every level of public service.
- Direct Access to Practitioners, Policy Coaching, and Policy Leaders: Students receive personalized mentorship from faculty and industry leaders, helping them refine their research focus and advance their career goals. Students are connected to an executive real world policy coach executive at no additional cost. This mentorship opportunity gives students an opportunity to receive career guidance and preparation as they face complex challenges in policy environments.
- An Accessible, High-Value Doctoral Program: UNLV’s Doctor of Public Policy program is designed to be accessible for working professionals. With one of the lowest tuition structures in the country for applied policy doctorates, students can pursue a doctoral degree without stepping away from full-time employment. The program also includes a signature experiential learning trip to Washington, D.C. giving students the opportunity to engage directly with national policy leaders.
"Knowing that I was able to plant seeds to spark thought around improving children's mental health services in Nevada is the win. In public policy, the seeds may bloom in future legislative sessions, but the growth begins during everyday community advocacy.”Ashley Pruitt, Class of 2025
Ready to Become a Rebel?
Professors of Practice
Laura Alison "Ali" Caliendo
Edgar Flores
Lisa Morris Hibbler, Ph.D.
Layke Martin
Dorian Stonebarger
