Major Requirements

Explore your path

Building Your Public Service Toolkit

Combine interdisciplinary coursework, foundational public service skills, and hands-on learning to understand complex challenges and develop practical solutions.

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.

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.