Our 30-credit undergraduate major in public policy will start accepting students in fall 2026. It will be the first of its kind in Wisconsin.
About the major
Studying public policy at UW–Madison means going beyond headlines and soundbites. Through interdisciplinary coursework and hands-on learning, you will develop skills in policy analysis, strategic communication, civil discourse, and evidence-based decision-making. You’ll learn to analyze tradeoffs, anticipate unintended consequences, and communicate across differences.
A Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in public policy will prepare you for a career in government, nonprofits, consulting, advocacy, or business. The 30-credit program will be distinct from other public policy undergraduate programs with courses focused on working across differences.
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.
View course options in the Guide
Review internship experiences from students
Advising
Quick questionsPromoting civil dialogue
Learn about initiatives we are involved in to help foster civil dialogue.
On campus
The Wisconsin Exchange: Pluralism in Practice aims to help students, faculty, and staff engage, live, and lead in a polarized world and ensure UW–Madison is flourishing, pluralistic campus.
Across Wisconsin
We collaborate with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on the Main Street Agenda, highlighting issues important to Wisconsin voters through statewide events and opinion articles.