Each Ph.D. student will choose from a list of Areas of Focus (AOFs). These areas play several roles in structuring the curriculum, all of which are designed to better guide students through their preparation for the various job markets. First, each AOF will determine two of the eight first-year courses. Second, each AOF will determine the form of and preparation for the second-year field requirements. The current set of AOFs is as follows:

1. Economic and Social Policy
2. Energy and Environment
3. Health Policy
4. International Policy and Development