Program Overview
The Policy and Values program at Doane University equips students with a deep understanding of policy systems and critical thinking skills to navigate them. Through a multidisciplinary core and specialized tracks in health care, environmental policy, or legal affairs, students develop essential competencies for careers in policymaking and law. The program emphasizes experiential learning and prepares graduates for a wide range of fulfilling career paths in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Overview: Policy and Values is a unique program within the College of Arts and Sciences at Doane University that prepares students for careers in policymaking and law.
- Objectives: The program provides students with two equally important competencies: a knowledge of how American policy systems work and an ability to think critically about the values that shape them.
- Description: This innovative approach, immersed in the liberal arts, offers several advantages for students, including preparation for law school or careers in policymaking in the private and public sectors, exposure to multiple perspectives, and development of essential skills for empathy and critical thinking.
Outline:
- Foundation Courses: Students take a multidisciplinary core of classes that teach political systems, skills for navigating them, and the value-context in which they reside.
- Core Courses:
- Introduction to Policy and Values
- American Politics OR Legislative and Executive Behavior
- Ethics
- Comparative Religions OR Cultural Anthropology
- Macroeconomics and Literacy
- Strategic Writing OR Public Relations
- Religion in Politics
- Public Opinion and Citizen Action OR Political Parties and Interest Groups
- Public Finance
- Organizational Behavior
- Capstone Experience
- Specializations: Students choose a policy specialization of health care, legal affairs, or environmental policy to increase their policy-specific knowledge.
Health Care Policy
- Required Courses:
- The Sociology of Health and Health Care
- EVS 205 (Principles of Environmental Public Health)
- ECO 329 (Health Care Economics)
- PSY/SOC 230 (Social Problems)
Environmental Policy
- Required Courses:
- EVS 392 (Environmental Policy and Sustainability)
- ECO 309 (Environmental Economics)
- EVS 105 (Introduction to Natural Resources)
- EVS 201 (Environmental Science)
- EVS 205 (Principles of Environmental Public Health)
- EVS 320 (Introduction to Geographic Information Systems)
- EVS 330 (Earth, Climate, and Energy)
- HIS 320 (American Environmental History)
Legal Affairs
- Required Courses:
- Constitutional Law
- Legal Environment of Business
- Legal and Ethical Issues
- Current Legal Issues
- Corrections
- Criminal Law and Procedure
Assessment:
- The program employs a variety of assessment methods, including written assignments, presentations, projects, and exams.
- Grading is based on a combination of factors, including clarity of writing, critical thinking, and originality.
Teaching:
- The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields.
- Classes are small and discussion-based, which allows students to engage with the material and with each other.
- The program also incorporates experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Careers:
- Graduates of the Policy and Values program are prepared for a fulfilling career in policymaking or law.
- Potential career paths include law school, congressional staffer, elected official, campaign consultant, government work (administration), compliance officer, regulatory official, journalist, nonprofit work (advocacy), nonprofit work (administration), policy analyst, lobbyist, and divinity school/clergy.
Doane University: A Summary
Overview:
Doane University is a private, liberal arts university located in Crete, Nebraska. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online learning options. Doane emphasizes a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and a focus on student success.
Services Offered:
Undergraduate Programs:
Doane offers over 40 undergraduate majors across various disciplines.Graduate Programs:
The university provides 9 graduate programs, including Master's degrees in areas like education, business, and nursing.Online Learning:
Doane's Open Learning Academy provides flexible, fully online courses at affordable prices.Transfer Programs:
Doane facilitates a smooth transfer process for students coming from other institutions.Housing and Dining:
Doane offers on-campus housing options and dining services, fostering a sense of community.Student Support:
The university provides various student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and financial aid.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Doane boasts a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and athletic teams. Students can participate in Greek Life, engage in community service, and enjoy various social events. The university also hosts Family Weekend, offering an opportunity for families to experience campus life together.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Personalized Learning:
Small class sizes and dedicated faculty provide individualized attention and support.Real-World Experience:
Doane emphasizes practical learning through internships, research opportunities, and hands-on projects.Strong Academic Reputation:
Doane is consistently ranked among the best universities in Nebraska and is recognized by national organizations.Four-Year Graduation Guarantee:
Doane's commitment to timely graduation ensures students graduate on time or ahead of schedule.Vibrant Campus Community:
Doane fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
Doane's academic programs are rooted in a liberal arts foundation, offering a broad range of disciplines. The university is particularly known for its strong programs in education, business, and nursing.
Other:
Doane University has a long history of innovative learning and is committed to preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives. The university offers a generous scholarship fund and provides comprehensive financial aid options to support students.