Public Policy Analysis

Program Overview

The Public Policy Analysis program at Columbus equips students with the skills to analyze and implement effective policy solutions. Through core courses, methods courses, and specialization tracks, students develop expertise in public policy analysis, evaluation, and leadership. Graduates are prepared for careers in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other sectors where they can make a positive impact on societal challenges.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Name: Public Policy Analysis
• Degree: Bachelor of Science (BS)
• Campus: Columbus
• Overview: This program equips students with the tools to create and implement effective policy solutions to address societal challenges.
• Objectives:
• Develop an understanding of public policy analysis techniques.
• Gain expertise in evaluating public policies.
• Foster civic engagement and leadership skills.
• Build a foundation in various aspects of public affairs, including management, leadership, and public economics.

Outline:

• Core Courses:
• Introduction to Public Affairs
• Public Policy Analysis
• Public Policy Evaluation
• Civic Engagement
• Public Affairs Decision Making
• Public Economics and Finance
• Public Management/Leadership
• Data Analysis/Research Methods
• Public Affairs Research Paper
• Public Affairs Specialization Courses
• Methods Courses:
• Students can select additional methods courses from departments such as political science and economics to complement their core coursework.
• Specialization Tracks and Minors:
• Students can specialize in an area of policy that interests them, such as education policy, science and technology policy, or health policy.
• Minors can also be pursued in conjunction with other units throughout the university.
• Capstone Research Project:
• Students complete a capstone research project on a topic of their choosing.
• Unique Approaches:
• The John Glenn Civic Leadership Community provides incoming first-year students with a unique living and learning experience that includes a group trip to Washington, D.C.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Graduates are prepared for entry-level opportunities in management or analysis with government agencies and nonprofit organizations.
• Specific career examples include:
• Budget Analyst
• Analyst, Ohio Department of Education
• Special Projects Coordinator, Columbus Partnership
• Benefit Analyst, Mercer Health & Benefits
• Associate Consultant, Health Philanthropy Service Group
• Legal Analyst, Kohrman, Jackson & Krantz
• Staff Assistant, U.S. House of Representatives
• Legislative Assistant, City of Columbus
• Opportunities and Outcomes:
• According to the Partnership for Public Service, the federal government will need to hire over 600,000 new employees over the next four years.
• The International City/County Management Association estimates that one-third of state and local government employees are over the age of 50, indicating a need for entry-level talent in upcoming years.
• Salary Estimates:
• Graduates earn an average starting salary of $42,000 per year, with salaries varying depending on the sector and occupation of choice.