Public administration can offer the opportunity for specialization in such fields as global public policy, fiscal economics and management, and international finances. Another aspect of public administration may involve research. Policy research, program planning, and market analysis are areas that can require this expertise.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.

Part time learning allows one to obtain part-time degrees even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at his or own pace, gradually accumulating credits which count towards final qualification.