Public Policy (BA)

Brooks School of Public Policy, College of Arts and Sciences

Program Website

Program Description

The study of public policy is a comprehensive exploration of the politics and mechanisms that shape policy formulation and execution, coupled with an assessment of their effects on society’s welfare and quality of life. Students who choose to major in public policy engage with a broad range of topics, including governmental policies impacting areas such as children and families, crime prevention, democratic processes, educational systems, environmental conservation, financial sectors, social inequality, public health initiatives, market regulations, and workplace dynamics, among others.

The major’s distinctive strength lies in its cultivation of robust theoretical frameworks, rigorous quantitative analysis skills, critical analytical thinking, strategic planning abilities, and the application of these skills to address real-world policy challenges. These competencies are highly sought after in both government and private sector settings, and our graduates are equipped to navigate complex policy landscapes and drive positive social change.

Policies and Procedures

See Arts & Sciences policies and procedures for additional college level policies.

Double Majoring 

No more than 12 credits applied towards the economics, government, or sociology major requirements can also count towards the PUBPOL major requirements.

Overlapping Credits

Each course may only meet one major requirement. The only exception to this policy is the engaged learning requirement which may overlap with any major requirement.

Study Abroad

Students must complete a curriculum substitution petition to request to have study abroad coursework meet Public Policy elective credits. No more than 8 credits of study abroad coursework per abroad semester can count towards the Public Policy elective credits requirement.  No other public policy major requirements may be completed abroad.

Public Policy Credits

Students must take major requirements under the PUBPOL section in order for it to meet the major requirements, unless an alternate section is specified in the requirements.

Academic Standards

Students must receive a C- or better in all major requirements. S/U grade may not be used for any major requirement unless it is the only grading option available for those courses.