B.S. in Public Policy

Policymakers are the ones who shape our world: they work on solving problems that affect us all — such as improving the environment, providing affordable health care, planning transportation options, and improving the quality of life in communities. Recognizing the interdisciplinary nature of public policy, this major includes study in a wide variety of policy areas through different departments. Majors will develop the ability to synthesize information and knowledge from across the disciplines to formulate comprehensive analyses of existing or proposed public policies, and to be able to present these analyses to decision-makers. Career Opportunities A wide range of career opportunities are available to policy majors. There is now increased demand for analysts who can contribute to the formulation and evaluation of policy, as well as its administration and management. The essence of a public policy degree is to educate students to be able to provide valuable advice to governments —federal, state and local; domestic and foreign — on choosing, implementing, and evaluating policy. In addition to careers as governmental policy analysts, students may go into positions as policy specialists in private businesses or nonprofit agencies, or any number of jobs involved with public affairs. The degree also provides an excellent preparation for graduate study in law, public policy and administration, and related fields