Resources for current students and those interested in our undergraduate programs.
Looking for graduate student advising?
Frequently Asked Questions
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
What classes should I take to see if policy is a good fit for me?
PA 200 is an excellent place to start.
Some students also start with a course that combines policy with their major field of study via the specialization course.
Can international students declare the public policy major?
Please speak with the academic advisor, Kelly Otto.
F-1 students may apply to our certificate programs now, but cannot select the BA/BS in public policy.
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 F-1 students into this major or issue a Form I-20 for this program.
What is the difference between PA 240 and 380?
PA 380 is an intermediate course that has an Econ prerequisite and explores how to use economics tools and skills to analyze and inform policy.
PA 240 is a beginner course with no prerequisites and explores how research is used to inform and analyze policy.
Can I substitute a course?
If you would like us to review a course and assess if the learning outcomes meet the criteria, please fill out this form and attach a syllabus.
How can I learn more about my internship options?
View a video on ways to fulfill the internship requirement.
If you have seen the video and still have questions, declared students can schedule an advising appointment or attend a drop-in advising session.
Does an internship for another program count toward the certificate?
Yes, as long as it is associated with a three-credit course and is policy-related.
Declared students can discuss this option at a drop-in advising session or an appointment after watching this video overview of the internship requirement.
Do study abroad courses count?
Before studying abroad, talk with your study abroad advisor about whether courses from a study abroad program will count towards your policy certificate.
Advising/info sessions
General drop-in sessions
Get quick help with our major or certificates.
There are no upcoming events.
Public policy major help
See how our major fits into your academic plan.
There are no upcoming events.
Targeted advising
Exploring students
If you have not declared one of our programs yet:
- Join a drop-in advising session to learn about our programs
- Send questions to:
Declared students
- Join a drop-in advising session
- Check Academic Navigator to find your assigned advisor
Career advising
- Visit our career hub for jobs, internships, and career advice
- Contact Career Director Marie Koko for help finding a job or internship
Our advisors
Select an advisor to learn more about them or schedule an appointment.
Guadalupe (Lupe) Granados
I am the primary advisor for the public policy certificate and I also advise some health policy students and anyone curious about our certificates.
Erin Rose
I am the main health policy certificate advisor and can help students navigate academic challenges and all things health policy.
Marie Koko
I work with all students and alumni on professional development and can help with internships or your post-UW job search.
Kelly Otto
I advise both public policy and health policy certificate students. Ask me questions about your direction, courses, and connecting your interests to academics.