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Earn Your Ph.D. in Government
Do you want to be a change agent who improves the way government agencies and related entities operate? Regent’s Doctor of Philosophy in Government can help students prepare themselves to be leaders of Christian thought and action in government and politics, including high-level policy positions at think tanks, government service positions in national security and domestic policy, and political science professors. The first of its kind to offer a fully online* course experience, this program provides robust training in the study and practice of government, all from a Christian worldview. You will enjoy broad interdisciplinary study and in-depth study using quantitative, qualitative and historical approaches. You can also learn from specialized, field-specific coursework tailored to your interests and career goals with concentrations in international development, international relations, security studies, and policy advocacy. You will be able to select a minor concentration and a major concentration that aligns with your interests and career goals from the following options: American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Policy Analysis.
- Demonstrate expertise in governmental culture and climate and lead teams with excellence.
- Develop sound policies to strengthen communities and the nation.
- Provide expert analysis on new and existing regulations affecting various industries.
- Apply a moral and ethical mindset when addressing and influencing policy.
Fill out the form on this page to learn more about how Regent University can help you achieve your goals.
- Civil Service positions (GS-11+)
- Public Policy Advocacy
- Data Analyst
- Corporate Risk Analyst
- Higher Education Professor/Military Education Professional
- American Politics
- Comparative Politics
- International Relations
- Policy Analysis
Unlock Your Leadership Potential
Sharpen Your Skills
Gain the critical skills and discipline-specific training employers seek.Expand Your Opportunities
Earn the essential credentials that help you advance in your career field.Deepen Your Faith
Learn biblical principles and values that anchor you as a Christian leader.Increase Your Impact
Get equipped to influence your field and shape culture and communities.Degree Finder
Ranked Among Top National Universities
Best School for Public Service in Government
preLaw, 2023Leaders in Public Policy education
preLaw, 2024Master’s in Public Policy Degree Programs
Intelligent, 2023Experience the Regent Difference
Scholarships
Access a financial aid package customized for your situation, including scholarships to help pay for college.- 80% of Regent students receive financial aid
- Nearly $24 million in institutional scholarships and aid provided in 2023-24
- Our Financial Aid team assists you in planning how to pay for college, creating aid packages tailored to your needs
Online Classes
Nearly 75% of our military students complete their coursework entirely online. Our flexible online options enable you to earn your degree around your family, work, and life commitments.- Customizable degrees in today’s most in-demand fields
- Convenient 8- and 15-week course sessions
- Generous transfer policy—up to 90 credit hours!
Military Support
Regent is proud to support the military with discounts and awards, flexible class sessions, and one-on-one assistance to help you succeed in your degree program.- Active-duty tuition assistance and military benefits counseling
- VA educational benefits for service members and their spouses and dependents
- Academic advising and tutoring
- Free career coaching and employment services
- Dedicated Green Zone campus supporting military and veteran students
*Admission requirements vary by program. "GI Bill®" is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
Hear From Our Students
Richard Mason
Ph.D., 2007"Regent was a pivotal point in my professional career. I have been forever changed by my experience!"
Irene Briggs
Ph.D., 2011"As a Mexican American growing up in a predominantly Hispanic community, I grew up with the mindset that I was not college material. Regent has given me the opportunity to pursue my dream and become what God has destined in me."
Paul Alexander
Ph.D., 2005"I consider my years in my Ph.D. program at Regent the best investment I ever made in my career. The time, energy and money spent in the program have paid off many times over. I consider the faculty to be world class, and my peers in my cohort are true friends and colleagues."
Tom Norbutus
Ph.D., 2012"I was particularly impressed with the highly organized online Ph.D. program. The faculty is second to none when it comes to their intelligence, teaching ability, compassion and their desire to work with students."
Heather Paessler-Chesterton
Ph.D., 2009"I wanted a rigorous doctoral program that could travel with me wherever I was in the country. I found this and more at Regent."