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Public Policy Studies

Undergraduate Degrees

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The Public Policy major prepares you to address some of the world's most significant challenges.  You’ll acquire the knowledge and skills to analyze policy problems, understand the complexities of issues, and create viable solutions through public policy.

The major will prepare you for a wide range of careers.  Our graduates go everywhere, attending top graduate and law schools in the U.S., serving as legislative aides for the U.S. Congress or as staff for various branches of government, and working in business or non-profit organizations.

Program information

Program length

183 credits

Degree awarded

Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy

Course delivery

On Campus

Term length

10 week quarter

Admission & merit aid priority deadline

Early Decision and Early Action November 1
Early Decision II and Regular Decision January 15

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Your greater good starts here

Shape tomorrow from a vibrant academic community full of opportunities — in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Core Courses - 24 Credits

  • PPOL 1910 - Introduction to Public Policy
  • PPOL 2000 - The Politics of American Policymaking
  • PPOL 2450 - Career/Professional Skills for Public Policy through Client-Driven Case Study
  • PPOL 2460 - Public Policy Analysis
  • PPOL 3115 - Economics for Public Policy
  • PPOL 3300 - Ethics for Public Policy

Electives - 8 Credits

  • Students choose an additional 8 credits outside of their specialization
Core Curriculum Image

Tailor your degree and build in-depth knowledge in any of the following areas, or work with your advisor to customize your degree plan. Students take three classes (12-credits) as part of their specialization. 

  • Development Policy
  • Environmental Policy
  • Economic Policy
  • Law and Policy
  • Social Policy
Specializations Image

Required courses for a Public Policy Minor:

  • PPOL 1910 – Introduction to Public Policy
  • PPOL 2000 – The Politics of American Policymaking
  • 16 additional Public Policy Electives

24 total credits to earn a minor.

To add a minor, contact your undergraduate academic advisor.

 Minor in Public Policy Image

Where our alumni make an impact:

Jumpstart BA + MA

Accelerate your career with JumpStart, our 5-year joint BA + MA program.

You apply in your junior year, complete graduate-level courses while still an undergraduate, and leave with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as one additional year of study.

Plus, JumpStart students receive a 50% graduate tuition scholarship!

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Study Abroad

Enhance your degree with study abroad. The University of Denver partners with approximately 150 study abroad programs and universities around the world, so there's room to find a fit no matter your interests. DU's Cherrington Global Scholars program also allows eligible students to spend a quarter abroad at no additional cost beyond that of a term at DU.

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People you’ll meet

Explore DU your way

Discover campus life, connect with faculty, tour our facilities, and experience the vibrant community that makes DU the perfect place to begin your academic journey.

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Have questions? You can choose your favorite way to connect — from emailing or chatting with an admissions advisor to joining a virtual info session.

Apply to DU

Take the next step toward your future. Learn about admission requirements, important deadlines, scholarships, and the application process.

Undergraduate Application Steps

Have questions? You can choose your favorite way to connect — from emailing or chatting with an admissions advisor to joining a virtual info session.

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