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What is Public Policy?

Public policy is the area of study and practice that deals with the implementation of social science theory into practice through the formation of laws. Individuals in this field will utilize research and information to identify issues and find ways to counter or curb problems within a given system. Objectives may be met through changes in funding, various courses of action, public measures, and legislative changes on policy.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$70,820

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

47.67%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

5800

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Public Policy Degree

Located at the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Harvard University is the nation’s leader for superior academic programs and research centers. Harvard is the hometown of energetic scholars and a training ground for alumni who bring revolutionary changes and transformations to the country.

The Harvard Kennedy School grants individuals with degrees in Public Policy, Public Administration, and deliberately designed curriculum for leadership and public service. Whether students want to earn a degree or just take classes to learn about different areas of public policy, Harvard Kennedy School offers high-level courses and welcomes students who are at fault. Students may apply to Kennedy’s Master, Doctoral, Executive education, and Leadership credential to expand their career prospect and deepen their knowledge.

Acceptance Rate

4.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Originally, Princeton University was known as the College of New Jersey in the year 1746, under the supervision of New Light Presbyterians, an influential Church in the Colonial America Era. Later in the year of 1896, the institution was formally rebranded to become today’s Princeton University – a premiere research university.

The Princeton School for Public and International Affairs commits to incorporate world-class dedication to service and scholarship towards a more positive world. It was first established in 1930 as a small interdisciplinary undergraduate program and today becomes one of the leading Schools which offer  top ranked public policy degree programs. Students can both access undergraduate, graduate, and courses at Princeton’s School of Public and International affairs provided they pass the admission process and requirements.

Acceptance Rate

5.78

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

A highly recognized member of the prestigious “Ivy League” and world’s most in demand private research university, Brown University is an excellent institution for intellectual and research pursuits. The annual number of enrollments is astonishingly 8,000, the graduation rate is 96%, and the teacher-faculty ratio is seven to one.   

One of the top-ranked Public Policy in the country is available through Brown’s Watson Institute International and Public Policy and Affairs. It focuses on the interdisciplinary and comparative research of human society, and focuses on the rules and norms of humans in general. In addition, students who complete the course will acquire the skills needed in practical applications.

Acceptance Rate

7.07

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

The University of Chicago is a prestigious university that has received many honors, from local to national recognition, and honorary awards from many respected organizations and world associations. This is a private institution dedicated to providing research and high-quality teaching for students and staff.

Through the school’s Harris Public Policy School, students are inspired to turn their passion for public service for doing good and achieving measurable social impact. Over the years since its foundation, Princeton’s Harris Public School commits to redefine the structure of every public policy program and school. It provides flexible and diverse options for every interested individual, who can enroll in degree courses, non-degree courses and customized courses under their assistance and supervision.

Acceptance Rate

6.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

It is America’s First University and today one of the leading premiere research universities across the globe. The University of Pennsylvania is a world-class top research university with programs and research focused on the generation of future leaders and answering the most challenging and prevalent concerns of today’s society.

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences offers comprehensive courses in Public Policy and Governance through its Department of Philosophy and Political Economy. It is written for students who are passionate about institutional management, and the scope of the course covers laws and social norms. Any individual interested to apply for Penn’s course in Public Policy and Governance, shall begin with the knowledge of Penn’s admission process and may also further inquiry for financial aid available for their needs and case.

Acceptance Rate

7.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

From the very beginning, Stanford University was expected to provide academic help and opportunities for individuals with academic efforts and research ideas. Today, Stanford University is a place with bright minds, outstanding research results, and an experienced faculty.

The top ranked Public Policy degree is an interdisciplinary program exploring the themes of philosophy, economics, psychology, and political science, along with law and social norms to shed light in answering today’s most prevalent issues on governance and public affairs and policy. At Stanford University, the university provides convenient and first-rate research in public policy to any individual with outstanding grades and qualifications. This is a program for anyone who wishes to spark change and move the world to a better phase of understanding and connection.

Acceptance Rate

4.34

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

Duke is a private research institution created in 1924 by James Buchanan Duke in hopes to serve his father’s memory. Since then, Duke University has achieved global success in providing first-class research centers and research, as well as cooperation and partnerships with different associations and companies.

Duke University, through its very own Sanford School of Public Policy, launched an accessible program in Public Policy. Sanford School has established a community of innovative methods and solutions by taking measurable actions to achieve positive change. Overall, Stanford University’s School of Public Policy is an ideal training ground for individuals with a flair for public policy.

Acceptance Rate

7.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

It is characterized by adherence to the northeastern style of teaching, Pomona College is a leading university in California. This is a private liberal arts college offering comprehensive courses with 48 majors in the fields of art, social and natural sciences, and history.

Pomona College offers a wide range of courses in different fields, including concentrated planning public policy analysis programs. The course mixes 11 different traditional majors to focus on hands-on practical issues and decision-making areas.  Students in the PPA major must take four courses, and they can also design their own courses according to their preferences.

Acceptance Rate

7.4

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Swarthmore College is a prestigious liberal arts college dedicated to advocating knowledge, insights, skills and unparalleled experience to students. It is an organization that places great emphasis on excellence and inclusiveness, diversity, and strong and active leadership.

Political science students can choose to take an interdisciplinary degree in public policy at Swarthmore College as a supplementary course for their major. In addition, students taking public policy courses should pass comprehensive requirements and pass external exams. The plan covers a variety of related topics, such as social justice advocacy for law and politics.

Acceptance Rate

8.93

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Cornell University is one of the nation’s providers of excellent education in Higher learning and education. It provides groundbreaking research results and plans, and provides them with courses and plans with complete faculty and staff.  Cornell University School of Public Affairs offers an Ivy League MPA degree with 8 intensive courses and flexible courses. This two-year MP degree program allows students to study all courses at Cornell and aims to provide learners with basic concepts of public policy. Furthermore, substantial practical work is waiting for students of Public Policy at Cornell’s Institute for Public Affairs.

Acceptance Rate

10.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Georgetown University is known for its Jesuit affiliation and dedication. It was the first higher education Catholic school established in 1789. It prides itself on a leading program built on compassion and respects the diversity and inclusion of all people from all aspects of diversity.

Through its McCourt School of Public Policy, Georgetown reaches to individuals with interest to solve and provide answers to today’s concerns and public affairs issues. It has a fascinating community that can further improve students’ learning levels in off-campus activities and participation and expand their experience in public policy and affairs. To get into the school’s rigorous faculty and community of Public Policy, shall be up-to-date with their admission applications

Acceptance Rate

14.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Northwestern University is a very competitive first-class private university. It is committed to high standards of teaching and innovative research, with a focus on stimulating the intellectual and personal growth of students.

Interested individuals may apply to Northwestern University’s Master Degree in Public Policy. The university’s school of Professional Studies aims to produce future leaders driven by the desire to impact change at local and global level. The master's program itself was created and planned to enhance students' analytical, administrative and leadership skills.

Acceptance Rate

9.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

A variety of educational experiences and courses are waiting for every student studying at Washington University in St. Louis. With a record of 94.64% graduation rate, the University of Washington has set the standard for excellence in higher education.

By establishing the Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis brought a comprehensive plan for public policy to the world. Brown school is a special community filled with faculty members with focus on asset creation and social development strategy. Students can register for their Master of Social Policy program, which is designed to stimulate critical thinking and earn a double degree among learners. 

Acceptance Rate

13.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

It is commonly known and referred to as the “Rice University”, Marsh William University top class research university in the country. Its core values are based on the belief that it will govern its educational system and methods for students and their faculty.

Public policy arouses students' genuine interest in public and international affairs and policies. Through Rice’s Baker’s Institute, students of Public Policy are honed to experience a top-notch education supported by the Institution itself.  The plan focuses on different topics and areas related to public policy matters.

Acceptance Rate

8.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Vanderbilt University in Nashville is a prestigious university that focuses on research and brings together thinkers and revolutionary leaders. The university values intellectual freedom and supports open communication, compassion and equality.

The university not only focuses on scientific research and other fields, but also plays an important role in providing people with comprehensive public policy major. It has the power to create differences and positive changes in the world. The program itself will allow learners to navigate through the policy world through the institution's faculty and renowned curriculum.

Acceptance Rate

9.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Tufts University is a pioneer in the pursuit of high-quality and standard education in higher education in the United States. It missions to put emphasis on students’ welfare through its transformative education and guidance.  At the core Tuft’s School for Arts and Sciences lies their degree in Public Policy. This is a program designed to enrich personal critical thinking, policy analysis and communication skills. In addition, students who wish to continue their studies should have a record of at least seven years of relevant experience and knowledge of public policy standards.

Acceptance Rate

14.95

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Johns Hopkins University is committed to their mission and vision to achieve progressive research and encouragement for scholars. At JHU, everyone has the opportunity to explore, discover and realize their full potential.  JHU also offers a master's program in International and Public Policy. The master program is a one-year full-time course and part-time course for students. It hopes to build expertise through diverse and flexible courses in its core curriculum.

Acceptance Rate

11.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The University of Virginia is among the leading public institutions across the country. Since its establishment in 1819, this is an iconic institution with a long history. 

There is a place for individuals who seek to grow in the field of Public Policy and Leadership at University of Virginia. The Franken Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy dedicated to look for solutions to the world's toughest policy challenges and issues. For interested applicants, it should be noted that each course offered by the school corresponds to its own deadline and requirements.

Acceptance Rate

23.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Claremont Mckenna College is a liberal arts college in California. Its goal is to become a first-class university through its curriculum in the fields of economics, public affairs and government.

At CMC, it offers students a public policy major with 9 courses and internship experience. The courses are extracted from different areas of history, government, philosophy, psychology, economics, capstone, Internship or Research Assistantship in Public Policy, Quantitative Methods, Ethics, and Policy Process. In addition, the required advanced papers are considered the basic and final requirements of its students.

Acceptance Rate

10.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

It is considered as one of the World’s prestigious universities in terms of research centers and quality education in higher learning education. The University of Southern California offers a unique educational experience, outstanding professors, and high-quality schools and departments.

USC established the Sol Price School of Public Policy, hoping to redefine and improve the quality of life of people and communities. Its Department for Public Policy prepares students to face the world’s complex problems with essential tools and processes. As students of Sol Price, they will get the exact opportunity to participate through co-creating ideas.

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of California is a huge school system with different campuses, including the Los Angeles campus. The University of Southern California, Los Angeles aims to develop humanity and provide understanding for the entire society.

The University of California, Los Angeles created the Public Policy Program through its Institute of Public Affairs, whose mission is to call on students to bring positive changes to the world. The UCLA Public Policy degree is known for a curriculum that encapsulates subjects determined to strengthen students’ critical thinking and knowledge on political analysis, economics and data analytic. It aims to train the next generation of change leaders.

Acceptance Rate

12.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The Hamilton College is a private liberal art college famous for its need-blind admission policy as embodiment to embrace diversity and promote an inclusive culture. Hamilton College lives by their motto: “Know Thyself,” as a foreground of their academic core values and approach.

At Hamilton College, students can enroll in the online public policy degree program at the Department of Economics, Government, and Philosophy. Public policy students focus on delivering results and focus on it. In addition, anyone hopes that Hamilton College can conduct rigorous and rich training under the leadership of an outstanding professor, and can achieve their expectations at any level.

Acceptance Rate

16.39

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of California – Berkeley was born from a vision in the State Constitution in 1868. It provides world-renowned teachers, institutions, research projects and funding.  Public policy at the University of Southern California is managed by the Goldman Sachs School of Public Policy. It awards students with three unique degrees in public policy, two public courses and a doctorate, and a doctorate in public policy and affairs. In addition, there are a variety of options for a combined program and degrees as allowed by USC.

Acceptance Rate

16.25

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

It is known to be Michigan’s Oldest School. The University of Michigan at Ann Arbor is a leading expert in providing research results. It provides opportunities for the learner community to make changes and demonstrate excellence in selected majors.

It prides itself on creating influence and redefining structure in different researches by many institutions. The University of Michigan has its own Ford School to attend to the academic, research, experiential needs of students in the Department of Public Policy. The curriculum curated and made by the institute tackles and includes solutions to end today’s toughest and most challenging issues in policies.

Acceptance Rate

22.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Carnegie Mellon University is a private school designed to challenge curiosity and inspire enthusiastic people to provide outstanding works. It attaches importance to transformative education and aims to enable students to focus on deep subject knowledge.

For students with the desire to learn, dig, and explore the world of Public Policy, there is a home waiting for them at CMU’s Heinz College. Outlines its public policy department to meet long-term and short-term priorities and actions. Heinz College offers a wide range of degrees and courses under the premise of public policy.

Acceptance Rate

15.44

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Top Public Policy Degrees

If you are thinking about earning a degree in public policy, it is important to know there are several options to consider.  In fact, the degree programs coupled with certificate programs are effectively doubled when adding online learning options.  The popularity of distance learning has made this segment the fastest growing in higher education across the country.  For more information about online learning, simply visit our blog or request information from accredited colleges and universities found on this resource page today.

Public Policy Bachelor’s Degree

A bachelor degree in public policy is conferred as a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA).  The program is a 4-year degree for full-time students while part-time students will take longer to complete the degree as a function of pace and course load.

The BA and BS degrees equip students with skills to help establish policy for the benefit of the general populace.  Four-year programs mix general education course with core curriculum to help provide a set of holistic and integrative thinking skills.

Core classes will help provide requisite skills to help students think deeply about a variety of issues including: ethical, legal, healthcare, environmental, disease, global health, public finances, social change, project management, disease prevention, and public communication.

Public Policy Graduate Certificates

Graduate certificates in public policy are hyper-focused sets of classes offered by accredited colleges and universities.  Whether you learn in-class or online, a graduate certificate will help qualifying students and working professionals upskill, remain competitive in a current position, prepare for a pending job change, or bolster your resume for an upcoming promotion.   Graduate certificates can last a few weeks to a year depending on the breadth of the program.

Public Policy Master’s Degree

A master’s degree in public policy is conferred as a Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master of Science (MS), Master of Public Policy (MPP).  In either case, students will gain the skills required to assess public policy issues and create substantial solutions for the positive benefit of society.

The core courses will be a function of the area of specialty chosen by the student.  Areas of concentration can include criminal justice, health policy, law & public policy, public management & leadership, homeland security, emergency management, local government management, terrorism mediation, global leadership, nonprofit management, and international nongovernmental organizations.

MPP, MPA, and MS degrees will take approximately 2-3 years to complete for most full-time students.  Classes found in the general public policy program will generally include public policy foundations, ethics, leadership, social change, organizational change, policy and politics, finance, applied research, and strategic planning.  At the completion of the program students will have the opportunity to take a capstone course and complete a thesis project.

Master degree-holders will be uniquely equipped to launch a career in a variety of directions.  The top jobs held by graduates from a public policy program include: policy reporter, politics editor, news editor, policy consultant, communications director, sustainability manager, health program analyst, clinical research manager, legislative analyst, federal intelligence analyst, development manager, government affairs director, and government official.

Doctorate Degree in Public Policy

Doctoral degrees in public policy are known as terminal degrees as no additional degrees exist after the doctorate degree.  Doctorate degrees can be conferred as a PhD in Public Policy Administration or Doctor of Public Administration (DPA).

Degree options will be a function of the school’s curricular design and program emphasis.  Graduate students will work closely with faculty advisors to establish a course schedule dependent upon a student’s area of interest.  In addition to core classes, doctoral students will spend a large portion of the degree program working on a dissertation.

Dissertations will take several years of planning and writing prior to defending the dissertation in front of a committee.  The purpose of a dissertation is to extend the knowledge in public policy through theory and practical application.

Public Policy Major Requirements

People who study public policy typically pursue at least a master's degree. Some undergraduate programs do exist, but a majority of individuals will have earned a degree in a social science or liberal arts when beginning their graduate public policy curriculum.

Individuals studying this field will have exposure to multiple social sciences, as well as the various data collection and analyses methods used by such fields in order to better understand and assist the public good. A curriculum in public policy may include:

  • Microeconomics & Macroeconomics
  • Ethics & Public Policy
  • Political Science
  • Law
  • Sociology
  • Public Management
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Public Planning

Employment in Public Policy

Individuals with an education in public policy typically seek out employment within the government, either as staff for a political candidate, a researcher, or any number of other fields that rely on the education and experience of public policy specialist. Individuals with enough education and experience may in turn pursue teaching opportunities. A number of individuals may choose to seek office, relying on education and experience to affect change.

Jobs in this area are highly competitive, and as such some individuals may turn to other fields through additional education, such as becoming lawyers, in order to maintain a career. Popular careers in public policy include the following job types:

Economic Advisor Local Government Analyst
Counterterrorism Analyst Urban Planner
Public Policy Professor Health Services Manager
Policy Analyst Statistician
Program Coordinator Legislative Aide
NGO Finance Manager Research Associate
City Manager Legislator
Community Service Manager Political Scientist
Educational Research Scientist Social Policy Researcher

Public Policy Salary and Career Outlook

The average salary for individuals with working within the field of public policy can vary widely.  Salary research performed by Public Service Careers reveals the lowest sector tends to be non-profit organizations.  The next highest paying employer in public policy is the public sector corporations followed by government agencies.

The top government policy analysts earn between $94,000 and $145,000 on average.  However, lower level analysts average just over $33,000 a year.  The salary range is dictated by other factors such as work experience, education level, type of employment arrangement, position, and physical location.

Job growth is expected remain limited in this field due to the high education requirement and limited number of positions available.  As a result the field is highly competitive, be it for practical, political or research positions. Individuals attempting to gain employment in this field should work early to establish important connections in order to be able to track down or secure employment.

Resources in Public Policy

Individuals interested in public policy may also be interested in urban planning, political science or sociology.  Students may consider becoming members of the IPPA or the APPAM to help broaden their professional network.  Such organizations provide unique benefits to their members while connecting like-minded professionals around the globe.

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