Program Overview

Public Policy, BS

The first term for enrollment in the Bachelor of Science in Public Policy is fall 2026.

At the University of WisconsinMadison, students majoring in Public Policy study how governments, institutions, and communities identify problems, weigh evidence, and make decisions that affect lives. They ask questions like: What makes a policy effective? Who benefitsand who doesnt? How can we use data, dialogue, and diverse perspectives to build better solutions? Through interdisciplinary coursework and hands-on learning, students develop skills in policy analysis, strategic communication, civil discourse, and evidence-based decision-making.

Program Overview

Whether you're passionate about climate justice, education reform, health equity, or economic development, Public Policys courses give you a framework to understand complex systems and a pathway to lead within them. Students often find the work exciting and transformativeconnecting classroom learning to real-world impact through internships, case studies, and collaborative projects.

Career Opportunities

Studying public policy at UWMadison means going beyond headlines and soundbites. Youll engage deeply with data, theory, and lived experience. Youll learn to analyze tradeoffs, anticipate unintended consequences, and communicate across differences. Youll be challenged to think critically, act ethically, and lead thoughtfully.

Graduates can pursue careers in:

• Government
• Nonprofits
• Consulting
• Advocacy
• Business And many will go on to graduate programs in public affairs or international public affairs, law school, or leadership roles in public service. The Public Policy majors emphasis on analytical rigor and civic engagement prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.