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Public Policy

The BA in Public Policy program is designed to inspire and equip students to pursue careers dedicated to fostering effective, equitable, and ethical policy solutions. It prepares students to address pressing societal challenges, including inequality, discrimination, corruption, and environmental sustainability, both within the United States and globally.

Grounded in the foundational principles of human dignity, solidarity, subsidiarity, and the common good, the program provides a critical and interdisciplinary examination of public policy formation, analysis, and implementation. Students engage deeply with policy issues in diverse sectors, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, international institutions, and advocacy groups.

Through a rigorous curriculum that integrates theory with real-world application, students will:

  1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the historical and philosophical foundations of public policy.
  2. Analyze and critique policies using qualitative and quantitative research methods.
  3. Explore the intersection of social justice, economic development, and political governance.
  4. Gain hands-on experience through internships, case studies, and policy simulations.
  5. Cultivate critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and professional communication skills to effectively navigate the complexities of policymaking.

The program’s ultimate objective is to prepare students for meaningful careers in public service, policy research and analysis, and leadership roles in government and the non-profit sector. Graduates will be well-positioned to advocate for and implement policies that promote social equity, transparency, and sustainable development in a rapidly changing world.

Departmental Learning Outcomes

  1. Analysis: Foundational knowledge in public policy. Students will demonstrate fundamental knowledge and comprehension of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, and historical trends related to the primary content and applied areas in public policy issues using fundamental sociological and policy analysis principles.
  2. Critical Evaluation and Policy Application. Students will critically evaluate and apply principles to analyze and critique policy responses to social issues. They will develop well-supported arguments, anticipate counterclaims, and assess the socioeconomic and political implications of policy decisions using diverse sources of evidence.
  3. Communication. Students will effectively communicate policy research and analysis and recommendations through written, oral, and visual formats. They will develop proficiency in using technology to support data-driven decision-making and policy advocacy, ensuring clarity and accessibility in public discourse
  4. Ethical Inquiry and Policy Development. Students will apply ethical reasoning to public policy debates, articulating the moral and ethical considerations inherent in governance, social justice, and human rights. They will engage in reflective practice to assess the ethical dimensions of policy making and its societal consequences.

Contact

718.405.3700
publicpolicy@umsv.edu
Founders Hall 308A