Mar 29, 2024  
2023 - 2024 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2023 - 2024 Undergraduate Catalog

Public Policy (BA in Public Policy)


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Majors & Minors

Required Credit Hours: 33 (From Courses Below)


In addition to the 33 credits for the major, there are two implicit requirements:

  • ECON 101 is a pre-requisite for several of the required major classes.
  • ECON 102 is a pre-requisite for several of the major elective classes. It is possible to get a Public Policy major without taking ECON 102, but we recommend it to ensure the widest array of elective options.

Major Computing Requirement:


The Major Computing Requirement is fulfilled by completion of one course listed under “Statistics” and one course listed under “Second Methods Course” in the Core of the Public Policy major.

Major Writing Requirement:


The Major Writing Requirement is fulfilled either by:

  • earning at least a C- in one of the courses listed under the “Capstone Experience” in the Core of the Public Policy major; or
  • earning at least a C- in one course that fulfills the ECON writing requirement or GOVT writing requirement that has been approved by Public Policy.

Core:


A major in Public Policy shall consist of a minimum of 33 semester hours selected from the courses listed below. Students take seven common core courses as follows:

Statistics (Choose One):


Electives:


Students may choose a minimum of any four courses (12 credits) to fulfill the electives portion of their major. The list of electives changes over time. For the most up-to-date list, check DegreeWorks. In addition, students may petition the Public Policy Program to have a course that is not listed be approved for major elective credit, which can include topics courses and independent study in ECON, GOVT, SOCL, and other fields. Information on how to submit a petition appears on the Public Policy website.

Capstone Experience:


At least 3 credits selected from:

Accelerated Master of Public Policy


W&M undergraduate students are able to earn both a Bachelor’s degree in any undergraduate major and a Master of Public Policy in five years. Candidates interested in this accelerated degree path must apply to and gain acceptance in their junior year.  See the Graduate Catalog and the Public Policy website for more details.

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Majors & Minors