Fully Funded PhD Programs 2026 – USC Sol Price School of Public Policy
PhD | Public Policy & Management • Urban Planning & Development • Policy, Planning & Development (Professional Doctorate)
University of Southern California (USC)
Sol Price School of Public Policy
Supported by USC Graduate School Fellowships & Assistantships
Location: University of Southern California (USC) – Los Angeles, California, USA
The USC Sol Price School of Public Policy offers fully funded doctoral programs designed to train the next generation of researchers, policy innovators, and academic leaders in public policy, urban planning, and development.
The programs provide rigorous research training, interdisciplinary coursework, and close mentorship from world-renowned faculty specializing in governance, public management, social policy, urban systems, environmental planning, housing, and equity.
Students receive full tuition, health insurance, and competitive multi-year stipends through graduate assistantships and fellowships. Doctoral candidates also engage in collaborative research, publish with faculty, present at leading conferences, and gain preparation for academic, policy, and global development careers.
These programs are ideal for applicants committed to advancing public problem-solving, shaping policy decisions, and contributing to high-impact scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply:
• Domestic & international applicants
• Strong academic background (relevant bachelor’s + master’s preferred for PhD)
• Demonstrated research interest in public policy, planning, development, or governance
• Evidence of academic potential (writing sample, prior research, publications etc.)
• Commitment to a research-driven academic or policy career
• Ability to meet USC graduate admission requirements
• Alignment with faculty research areas (highly recommended)
Funding / Coverage
USC PhD Funding Package (Fully Funded – 4 Years Minimum)
• Full tuition coverage
• Competitive annual stipend (via fellowship or graduate assistantship)
• Health and dental insurance
• Opportunities for research assistantships & teaching assistantships
• Professional development, conference support & research funding
• Access to USC research centers, labs, and faculty mentorship
• Additional fellowships available through the USC Graduate School
Additional Notes:
• Funding is guaranteed for at least 4 years for admitted PhD students
• Highly competitive; strong research fit increases chances
• Students are encouraged to pursue external fellowships for supplemental support
Program Level
• PhD (4–5 years)
• Professional Doctorate (DPPD) (for mid-career professionals)
Eligible Fields / Program Areas
PhD in Public Policy & Management (PPM)
• Public Policy Analysis
• Governance & Institutions
• Public Management
• Social & Urban Policy
• Economics of Policy
PhD in Urban Planning & Development (UPD)
• Urban Systems & Sustainability
• Housing & Community Development
• Environmental Planning
• Transportation & Infrastructure
• Spatial Planning & Development
Doctor of Policy, Planning and Development (DPPD – Professional Doctorate)
• Urban & Regional Development
• Public Administration
• Planning & Policy Leadership
1 december 2025