BA in Public Policy in Boston United States | University of Massachusetts Amherst

Public policy examines how governments tackle complex issues like climate change, healthcare, education, immigration, and technological advancement. As a student in this field, you'll analyze how governments, nonprofits, businesses, and citizens collaborate to solve societal problems. The curriculum equips you with practical skills in management and leadership to transform visionary ideas into concrete solutions. Introductory courses tackle fundamental questions and contemporary policy discussions, while core classes establish foundations in policy processes, economics, data analysis, and communication. Through specialized electives and a culminating capstone project, students apply their knowledge to real-world policy challenges. Faculty mentors guide students in developing leadership capabilities for creating change at local, national, or global levels. Graduates pursue careers across government agencies, nonprofit organizations, social ventures, and corporate sectors, with strong preparation for law school or advanced academic programs.
At UMass Amherst, the School of Public Policy serves as the central nexus for interdisciplinary policy research, education, and community involvement. Distinguished faculty members specialize in diverse areas including social welfare, environmental policy, technology governance, nonprofit administration, criminal justice reform, educational equity, LGBTQIA+ rights, public administration, human rights advocacy, racial justice, and poverty alleviation strategies.