The Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (STEP) cluster of the SPIA doctoral program applies natural science, engineering, and social science methodology to important policy questions related to science, technology, and their impacts on society and the environment. It also emphasizes interactions among natural and social science and engineering in policy analysis. 

The STEP curriculum is designed to enable students to develop a deeper understanding of: (1) the nature of scientific, environmental, and technological problems and analysis approaches to identify opportunities for policy solutions; (2) the specialized research methods used for analyzing issues involving science and technology; (3) the dynamics of science and technology development and application, and (4) the interaction of science and technology with domestic and international politics, law, and regulation.

Advising Structure

The course of study for a STEP Ph.D. student is developed by each student, working closely with a faculty advisor. A student is admitted into the STEP cluster with a designated primary adviser. For this reason, it is critical that prospective students' research interests closely align with potential faculty advisers affiliated with the STEP cluster.

Twenty faculty with appointments in policy, science, and engineering departments comprise the STEP faculty. Their expertise covers a range of environmental and technology policy topics, including: air quality and climate change, ecology and conservation biology policy, global environmental governance, natural hazards and social vulnerability, Integrated Assessment Models, energy systems, information technology policy, AI, social media, and data privacy.