BA in Policy Studies - International affairs

Program Learning Outcomes for BA in Policy Studies Students graduating from this program will: Develop a basic understanding of the policy world, including institutional structures of the policymaking environment. Learn basic analytical tools necessary for entry into the policy environment through analytical or research methods or advanced language proficiency. Demonstrate knowledge of the basic principles and ideas of multiple disciplines, (including but not limited to: economics, law, sociology, environment, and health sciences) which are directly related to policy studies. Learn to approach policy problems with multi-disciplinary methods and cross-disciplinary models and theories. Students will also be able to synthesize ideas from multiple disciplines. Develop knowledge of the social and cultural aspects of the implications and outcomes of policy decisions for different populations. Develop an understanding of the application of their knowledge in the outside world through participation in internships or similar structured experiences or through major research projects. Degree Requirements for BA in Policy Studies For general university requirements, see Graduation Requirements. Students may take the policy studies major only as a second major (their first major cannot also be in an interdepartmental program). The major contains 11 courses divided into the following elements: a basic curriculum, an area curriculum, and a capstone requirement. The policy studies basic curriculum introduces students to the fundamental concepts and tools needed to understand and study policy, regardless of the policy area on which they choose to focus. The four courses ensure that all policy studies majors have a common professional vocabulary and conceptual frame of reference. The policy studies area curriculum provides specialized training that builds on students’ work in the basic curriculum. Students also are required to take six courses from one of the following areas of specialization or in an area approved by the policy studies director: Environmental policy Healthcare management International affairs Law and justice Urban and social change Energy Policy Studies In consultation with the policy studies director, each student also must complete an approved capstone requirement. This requirement may be met by participating in an approved Rice University study abroad program, a School of Social Sciences Gateway experience, or another approved internship or research opportunity. This program based on International affairs.