Courses

What to Expect

What type of readings are involved in first-and-second-year courses? (e.g. articles, textbook) How much reading should a student expect to do per week?

Public Policy is an interdisciplinary major that combines classes from several different departments, most importantly Economics and Government. First-and-second-year students are likely to take one class that we offer directly, though: Introduction to Public Policy. In that class, students can expect to read 30-60 pages per week, including academic articles, news articles, research reports, and textbook readings. Sometimes “readings” take the form of podcasts.

What sorts of assignments should a student expect in first-and-second-year courses? (e.g. quizzes, group projects, presentations)

Students are evaluated in several ways including exams, group projects, and presentations. The group projects include activities like creating fact sheets on a public problem, conducting cost-benefit analyses, writing policy memos, and drafting legislative proposals.

Beyond the required course texts, are there other course materials a student should be prepared to purchase for first-and-second-year courses?

Students will not need to purchase course materials beyond the required course texts.

Is there anything else that is important for first-and-second-year students to know and/or expect from their courses?

Public Policy is difficult to teach without referencing current events. We recommend, and some professors require, students pay attention to current events as they take Public Policy courses. Doing so will prepare students for more meaningful engagement in class discussions.