What to Do with a Public Policy Major?

WHAT IS A PUBLIC POLICY MAJOR?

The University of Denver’s interdisciplinary program in public policy focuses on major social issues and how they impact the public and private sectors. public policy is a highly disciplined, evidence-based approach to the analysis and solution of contemporary issues like fiscal policy and government spending, entitlement reform, health care, national security, regulation, criminal justice, education, and immigration.

Also, visit the government/public policy career resources page.

COMMON CAREERS FOR PUBLIC POLICY MAJORS

With a deep understanding of the issues of the day, many public policy majors go on to work in the education, government, non-profit or healthcare industries.

COMMON JOB TITLES HELD BY THESE PUBLIC POLICY MAJORS INCLUDE:

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS OF PUBLIC POLICY MAJORS

In addition to the careers listed above, public policy majors are well-suited to fields that require the following skills:

• interpersonal communication
• research
• communication
• persuasion
• data analysis
• critical thinking and interpretation
• problem-solving
• writing

IS A PUBLIC POLICY MAJOR RIGHT FOR YOU?

Still unsure if you should major in public policy? Schedule a session with a career counselor, attend our “Choosing a Major” workshop, and attend career events where you can network with employers that hire public policy majors and alumni who majored in public policy. Also, schedule a session with the department chair, where you can explore other possible career paths.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS FOR PUBLIC POLICY MAJORS

• Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management

RESOURCES FOR PUBLIC POLICY MAJORS

• Colorado Municipal League
• Colorado Nonprofit Association
• Government Career Resources
• Opportunities in Public Affairs
• Public Service Careers
• State of Colorado Employment Opportunities
• USA Jobs