The Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy consistently ranks as one of the nation's leading public policy schools.
We educate policy professionals to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving public sector and navigate complex challenges where innovation, collaboration, and excellence are pivotal to driving change.
Our mission is to improve lives and communities by researching the most pressing public policy issues and preparing students for lives of leadership, civic engagement and public service. We are a learning community of more than 1,000 strong that pursue the Sanford approach of “analysis + action.”
Degree Programs
Master's Programs
We offer four distinct master's degrees designed to empower current and emerging leaders to lift their careers, broaden their perspectives, and deepen their impact.
Doctoral Program
Our PhD program offers rigorous training for scholars seeking to examine complex policy questions with significant societal implications, both globally and domestically.
Undergraduate major
The Public Policy major enables students to develop the analytical skills and ethical grounding needed to address complex societal challenges.
Lifelong Learning
Executive Education
Sanford offers executive education programs for mid-career and senior-level professionals to enhance their skills.