The Public Service and Policy major combines a strong foundation in public service and policy with the flexibility to explore the issues and fields that interest you most.
Through coursework across the University of Washington and the Evans School, you’ll develop skills in policy analysis, research methods, leadership, communication, and problem solving. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore different policy areas, prepare for a range of careers, and build a strong foundation for graduate study.
The major requires 70 credits of coursework and can be a great complement to another area of study. Many students pair the major with a second major, minor, or courses that connect to their personal and professional goals. To earn your BA with the Evans School, you must complete all major requirements listed below in addition to the general education and area of inquiry requirements necessary for all bachelor’s degrees.
Preparing for the Major
First- and second-year students can begin exploring public service and policy through courses in areas such as:
- Composition and writing
- Economics
- Leadership
- Political science
- Public policy
- Regional studies
- Sociology
- Statistics
- Areas of inquiry related to public challenges
For questions about the major and the Evans School, please email us at evansug@uw.edu.
Public Service and Policy Foundational Courses
Build knowledge and skills in policy context, methods, leadership, and practice.
- PUBPOL 201 Intro to Public Policy (5)
Choose 5 additional credits:
- PUBPOL 313 Evidence-Based Implementation (5)
- PUBPOL 321 Decision-making, Behavior, & Design (5)
- PUBPOL 303 Methods of Policy Inquiry (5)
- PUBPOL 301 Truth, Evidence, Policy Analytics (5)
- PUBPOL 302 Public Service Leadership (5)
Choose 5 additional credits:
- PUBPOL 402 Ethics, Leadership, Implementation (5)
- PUBPOL 403 Leadership in Action (5)
Choose 5 credits:
- PUBPOL 496 Public Service & Policy Lab (5)
- PUBPOL 497: Internship
- PUBPOL 498: Undergrad Research
Interdisciplinary Requirements
Explore topics across disciplines that shape public service and policy. Deepen your understanding of policy areas that connect to your interests and goals.
- QMETH 201 Intro to Statistical Methods (4)
- Q SCI 381 Intro to Probability and Statistics (5)
- STAT 220 Statistical Reasoning (5)
- STAT 221 Statistical Concepts & Methods for SSc (5)
- STAT 290 Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics (5)
- STAT 311 Elements of Statistical Methods (5)
Complete 15 credits from among 100- and 200-level approved courses representing areas that inform public service and policy.
Complete 15 credits from among 300- and 400-level PUBPOL courses or approved courses from a range of departments and schools.