College of the Sciences
Public Policy
Bachelor of Science | Major
Public Policy, BS
Our undergraduate program in public policy equips you with the skills to address complex policy issues and make a positive impact.
At CWU, we empower our students to be at the forefront of creating a better future for our communities and society. You'll develop critical thinking and analytical skills as you learn about political and social factors that shape policy decisions. With a degree in Public Policy, you'll be prepared to take an active role in shaping policies that improve people's lives in government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. Internships are common and add to the benefits of this degree.
Questions? Contact Us.
Department of Geography
Dean Hall 301
You Belong Here
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Geography Department Website
Public Policy Core
- ECON 201 - Principles of Economics Micro
- ECON 202 - Principles of Economics Macro
- ECON 332 - Public Finance
- GEOG 250 - Resource Exploitation and Conservation
- ENST 202 - Environment and Society
- GEOG 346 - Political Geography
- POSC 429 - Research Seminar in Public Policy
- IT 238 - Introduction to Cyberwarfare
- SOC 459 - Organizations
- PUBH 209 - Consumer Health
- PUBH 230 - Foundations of Public and Community Health
- PUBH 250 - Introduction to Health Policy and Systems
- POSC 320 - Public Administration
- POSC 325 - Introduction to Public Policy
Research Tools Elective
- BUS 221 - Introductory Business Statistics
- GEOG 301 - Introduction to GIS and Maps
- GEOG 409 - Quantitative Methods in Geography
- LAJ 400 - Research Methods in Criminal Justice
- MATH 211 - Statistical Concepts and Methods
- PSY 362 - Introductory Statistics
- SOC 364 - Data Analysis in Sociology
Department-Approved Electives
Impact
Acquire the skills and knowledge to make a difference in your own community and work towards creating a more equitable and just society.
Interdisciplinary
Pair this degree with another major in environmental studies, geography, public health, political science, or sociology.
Career Focused
Our graduates find jobs in many sectors including government, non-profits, law, and public administration.
Connected
Success in this field is dependent on being visible and heard. Take advantage of opportunities for internships and networking.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Student to Faculty Ratio
You'll get to know your professors and they will know you by name, one of the benefits of small class sizes.
Job Placement
A degree in this program can fast track your career due to the need for knowledgeable policy makers well-versed in current issues.
Professional Interships
Gain real-world experience by participating in an internship.
Building a Future in Public Policy
At CWU, Maddie Brown Shirley found mentors who helped connect her economics and policy interests, build her research skills, and chart a path forward. Today, she’s studying public policy in D.C. and interning with congressional leaders and national policy organizations. Discover where her CWU experience led.
Career Pathways
Policy Analyst
Government Affairs Specialist
Non-Profit Program Coordinator
Political Campaign Manager