Public Policy
The Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy at the University of Michigan provides a rigorous program for students interested in understanding policy development, governance, and social impact. The curriculum emphasizes policy analysis, economics, political science, and research methods, preparing students to evaluate policies, design interventions, and assess their societal effects. Students engage in case studies, data analysis, and applied projects, developing skills necessary to interpret complex social issues, propose solutions, and communicate recommendations effectively. This program cultivates both analytical proficiency and practical expertise, equipping graduates for careers in government, research, and nonprofit organizations.
Learners explore interdisciplinary connections between political science, economics, sociology, and ethics. The curriculum offers opportunities for applied research, internships, and collaborative projects, allowing students to study policy formulation, program evaluation, and governance. Through mentorship, fieldwork, and hands on projects, students refine critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and communication skills. With a focus on applied research and policy analysis, the program prepares graduates to contribute to evidence based policymaking, public administration, and social initiatives.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Public Policy
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of Michigan, United States
- Field of Study: Public Policy
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Public Policy
• Introduction to Public Policy
• Principles of Political Science
• Economics for Policy Analysis
• Foundations of Research Methods
Year 2 - Core Policy Studies
• Policy Analysis and Evaluation
• Statistics and Quantitative Methods
• Ethics and Governance
• Elective Modules in Policy Studies
Year 3 - Applied Policy and Governance
• Program Implementation and Evaluation
• Public Administration and Management
• Social Policy and Community Development
• Elective Modules in Specialized Policy Areas
Year 4 - Capstone and Professional Integration
• Senior Thesis / Research Project
• Seminar in Public Policy
• Internship in Government or NGOs
• Professional Skills and Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program acquire advanced analytical, research, and applied skills that prepare them for careers in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, policy research, advocacy, and public administration. They develop expertise in policy analysis, social evaluation, and governance, enabling them to assess programs, design policy interventions, and influence decision making. The program also prepares graduates for roles in consulting, research institutions, advocacy groups, and educational programs, equipping them to apply evidence based approaches in professional contexts. Graduates leave ready to contribute to policymaking, program evaluation, and social impact initiatives.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a curriculum that integrates policy analysis with governance, social research, and applied practice, offering mentorship, internships, and research projects. Learners benefit from faculty expertise, interdisciplinary coursework, and hands on experience that strengthen analytical, research, and communication skills. The curriculum emphasizes evidence based study, applied policy research, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates to evaluate social issues, develop policy solutions, and influence governance. With its focus on applied proficiency and research excellence, the program provides a dynamic academic environment for students aspiring to careers in policy, public administration, and social research.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: 734-764-8129
Email: rackadmis@umich.edu
Address: Graduate Admissions Office, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
