Public policy major
Introducing a first-of-its-kind undergraduate major in public policy at UW–Madison. Featuring curriculum and programming focused on working across differences and finding common ground, students will learn how to address political polarization in the classroom and in their communities.
“For decades, La Follette has prepared graduate students for impactful careers in public service. Now, we have the opportunity to introduce thousands of undergraduate students to the tools of policy analysis, civil dialogue, and evidence-based decision-making. I cannot wait to see the impact these students will have on Wisconsin and beyond.”
Prepare to make an impact
What is public policy?
Public policy is the study of how laws, programs, and decisions are developed to address challenges facing communities and society. It combines data, analysis, and diverse perspectives to understand problems and create solutions that improve people’s lives.
What can I do with a public policy degree?
A degree in public policy helps to develop strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills that are valued across many professions. Graduates pursue careers in local, state, and federal government, nonprofit and advocacy organizations, think tanks, consulting firms, and private businesses.
Learn more about career paths by visiting the La Follette School Career Hub.
Who is a good fit for public policy?
Public policy may be a good fit if you:
- Want to make a difference in your community or society
- Enjoy volunteering, community engagement, or service activities
- Participate in Student Council, Model UN, advocacy groups, or other leadership experiences
- Are curious about policy, law, government, and how decisions are made
- Want to understand how systems work and how change happens
- Enjoy discussing today’s issues and exploring solutions to complex challenges
- Are looking for hands-on, applied learning that connects to the real world
Course overview
Students must complete a core course before declaring the major. We recommend starting with PA 200, PA 230, or PA 335 to build foundational knowledge. PA 200 is open to all students, while students who have declared the major receive priority enrollment in all other courses.
- Public Affairs 200: Contemporary Public Policy Issues
- Public Affairs 230: Advancing Public Policy in a Divided America
- Public Affairs 335: Policy Actors, Institutions, and the Policy Process
Students complete 12 credits of intermediate- or advanced-level policy electives. While there is flexibility in course sequencing, we encourage students to first build a foundation in policy processes and analytical methods. After establishing these core skills, students are better positioned to choose electives that align with their interests and goals.
The approved elective list provides examples but is not exhaustive. Students may request approval for additional courses that meet program criteria and are encouraged to consult with an advisor when planning their coursework.
As students complete foundational policy, analytics, and elective coursework, they refine and build skills and knowledge in areas of interest. We recommend completing this core coursework before pursuing an internship, as it prepares students to pursue opportunities that align with their academic and career goals.
Students can complete a policy-related internship and at least 3 credits of a companion course during a semester or summer. Alternatively, they may complete a public policy workshop course when offered. Seniors receive priority enrollment for workshop courses.
Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to gather essential information. First, we ask students to review major requirements in the Guide. Your next step is to send any basic questions to our advising email policymajor@lafollette.wisc.edu or attend a drop-in advising session. If you are looking for more comprehensive information, join us at an info session; the informational sessions will be held prior to peak course enrollment. Interested students can also schedule an advising appointment with a major advisor for more in-depth questions.
Review the declaration requirements in the Guide. If you meet all declaration requirements, then schedule an advising appointment with our major advisors. An advising appointment is required to declare the major.
The major is housed in the College of Letters & Science, but students outside L&S may be able to pursue it as an additional major if approved by their home school or college.
Students must complete a core course before declaring the major. We recommend starting with PA 200, PA 230, or PA 335 to build foundational knowledge. PA 200 is open to all students, while students who have declared the major receive priority enrollment in all other courses.
Public Policy Major students must complete a qualifying 3- credit course alongside an approved internship. The requirement can also be met through La Follette’s Workshop courses or Wisconsin in Washington. This requirement provides hands-on experience applying policy concepts in a professional or academic setting. These experiences not only help build a resume but help apply academic concepts to real-world challenges.
The La Follette Career Hub houses a curated list of pre-approved opportunities specifically for La Follette students. Students can find their own internship, but it must be policy-focused and approved by Marie Koko, the Director of Career and Employer Services. Here are the criteria for a policy-focused internship.
Follow these four easy steps to enroll in PA 327.
Many students studying public policy participate in study abroad programs. With advance planning, study abroad can be an excellent way to explore global policy issues, gain international experience, and stay on track with your academic and career goals.
Meet with a study abroad advisor to identify programs that best meet your interests. Then meet with your public policy advisor early to discuss how study abroad courses might fit into your academic plan. Students most often use a study abroad course to fulfill the elective or the internship requirement.
First, review Public Affairs and Public Policy course details and subject notes in Course Search and Enroll for term-specific information. Use this link to navigate Course Search and Enroll and troubleshoot any enrollment errors prior to sending your questions to enrollment@lafollette.wisc.edu.
Please speak with academic advisor Kelly Otto. UW–Madison is awaiting approval for the new BA/BS in Public Policy by the Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) before we are able to accept prospective F-1 students into this major or issue a Form I-20 for this program. F-1 students may apply for certificate options now but cannot select the BA/BS in Public Policy.
All undergraduate students must use this link to apply. We recommend that you set a reminder to submit the application before the published deadline. Even if students miss this deadline, they must complete this form to graduate.
The La Follette School is not currently offering information sessions specifically for high school students. In the meantime, we encourage you to take your time exploring our website and the following resources. We look forward to connecting with you once you are on campus.
Next steps
Review requirements
Visit the Guide for BA and BS requirements.
Ask a brief question
Attend drop-in advising or send a quick question.
Declare the Public Policy major
Meet 1:1 with an advisor to declare.
Declared students: Connect with your assigned advisor.
Advising/info sessions
General drop-in sessions
Get quick help with our major or certificates.
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Oct 28
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Oct 29
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Nov 11
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Nov 12
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Nov 17
Public policy major help
See how our major fits into your academic plan.