by John MacGregor
Online Masters Degrees Programs Columnist

It’s a fact that the job market in public policy can be difficult if you don’t have an advanced degree. For many people who already have a master’s degree in public policy, earning a PhD might seem out of reach. But new online learning programs at accredited schools offer working professionals the opportunity to set themselves apart and still excel in their careers.

Getting a PhD

Doctoral degrees are the most advanced programs available in the area of public policy. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that public policy jobs are competitive and typically require an advanced degree. Earning your public policy PhD shows that you are committed to your goals of excelling in this field of academic excellence. A PhD helps set job applicants apart in an area where many already have master’s degrees.

Online PhD Degrees are Suitable for Working Professionals

It’s a Catch 22—by the time they’ve figured out that they want to earn a PhD, most people are already settled in a career. Further study, especially for a demanding PhD program, usually requires putting your career on hold and living in poverty, sometimes for as long as seven years. If you’re working already, beginning an online PhD program shows you’re committed to improving yourself. And if you’re looking for a job, nothing conveys your academic spirit and promise for the future like earning your PhD. Online learning allows you to learn without spending long years at a traditional campus school. With an online PhD program you can stay true to your career and other commitments—it’s not just a dream anymore!

About the author

John MacGregor is a freelance writer with degrees from the University of California in Comparative Literature and Law. He has traveled widely and worked on civil rights, government, education, and technology projects.

Source(s)

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics