Our Ph.D. in Urban Services graduates form a strategic network of leaders for urban communities. Each student's program of study is carefully guided by an individual advisory committee in accordance with the overall standards of the program. The program encompasses five main themes. The Management concentration stresses policy analysis, problem solving, and decision making. A major focus of course work is in public administration and management, designed to prepare leaders of government and voluntary agencies to deal with the needs of urbanized society.
Students pursue a cognate in a related field.
Students develop research skills and analytical competency that are used in their course work, field experiences and dissertations. A major aspect of doctoral study is the atmosphere of intellectual independence and individual creativity fostered within the collegiality of urban scholars and professionals. Our primary aim is to develop in students the realization that their intellectual growth, knowledge, and subsequent professional success are directly related. Although doctoral programs are often associated with a high degree of specialization, in the urban services doctoral program such specialization is viewed as secondary to extending knowledge and practice beyond our present horizons. All provisional students must pass a diagnostic exam prior to completing 15 credit hours.