Philosophy, Politics and Economics- Public Policy and Governance
The Philosophy, Politics and Economics: Public Policy and Governance Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with an integrated understanding of political systems, economic principles, and ethical frameworks as they relate to public policy and governance. The curriculum combines political theory, economic analysis, ethics, policy evaluation, and quantitative methods, enabling students to critically examine governmental structures, policy-making processes, and societal outcomes. Students engage in research projects, case studies, and applied analysis, developing the ability to design, implement, and assess public policies effectively while considering both social equity and economic efficiency.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, collaborative projects, and experiential learning opportunities guided by faculty experts in economics, political science, and ethics. The curriculum emphasizes analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and practical application, allowing graduates to navigate complex governance challenges and evaluate policy impacts at local, national, and international levels. Students leave the program with analytical insight, research proficiency, critical reasoning, and policy expertise, fully prepared for professional roles or advanced study in public policy, economics, political science, or law.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Philosophy, Politics and Economics- Public Policy and Governance
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Economics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Policy, Economics, and Governance
- Introduction to Philosophy and Ethics
- Principles of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
- Introduction to Political Science
- Quantitative Methods and Research Techniques
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Public Policy
- Political Philosophy and Governance
- Public Policy Analysis and Evaluation
- Econometrics and Data Analysis
- Ethics in Policy and Governance
Year 3 – Advanced Economic and Political Integration
- Government and Economic Policy
- Comparative Politics and International Governance
- Applied Ethics and Policy Decision-Making
- Electives: Public Finance, Social Policy, or Behavioral Economics
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Applied Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Policy Challenges
- Strategic Policy Analysis and Implementation
- Professional Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Public Policy and Governance track are prepared for careers in government agencies, policy analysis, nonprofit organizations, consulting, international development, and research institutions. Alumni may work as policy analysts, public affairs specialists, program managers, or pursue graduate studies in economics, public policy, law, or political science. The program equips graduates to analyze complex economic and political systems, design evidence-based policy interventions, and evaluate social and economic impacts. With strong analytical, ethical, and decision-making skills, graduates are highly competitive for professional and academic roles that require expertise in governance and public policy.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of economic reasoning, political analysis, ethical frameworks, and applied research within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from faculty mentorship, experiential learning, and opportunities to engage in policy research and applied projects that address real-world governance challenges. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and interdisciplinary problem-solving, preparing graduates to evaluate policy decisions, implement effective governance strategies, and influence societal outcomes. For students passionate about shaping public policy, understanding governance structures, and applying analytical and ethical judgment to societal challenges, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
