Public Policy Studies

The minor or specialization in public policy studies will prepare you to make a difference - at local, national, and global levels.

Students sitting in class

You care deeply about people and populations

Our students are conscientious and analytical, cultivating a deep understanding of the different ways public policy is developed and implemented. You'll use your vision, compassion and intelligence to improve the lives of others.

You'll think critically about questions that concern the daily lives of Americans — like the impacts of governmental actions and the tools available to address societal struggles — and apply your skills to every day situations.

Our students combine public policy with a variety of majors and head out into the world prepared to affect public good.

 

The Minor Consists of Five Courses

The following two core courses:

ECON100 Principles of Microeconomics 4
POLS217 American Public Policy 4

Plus three electives from the following list:

BUS220 Introduction to Health Systems 4
ECON101 Principles of Macroeconomics 4
ECON236 Public Economics 4
ECON241 Business Competition and Antitrust Policy 4
ECON247 Environmental Economics 4
ECON255 Political Economy of Education 4
PH345 Health Systems & Policy 4
POLS101 Introduction to American Politics 4
POLS212 Politics Unplugged: How Things Work in Massachusetts 4
POLS227 Food Policy 3
POLS317 Intersectionality and Public Policy 4
SOCI321 Sociology of Food 4
SW200 Social Welfare Policy 4

Spotlight on Public Policy Students and Alums

Headshot of Lucy Lawrence

Meet Your Orientation Leader: Lucy Lawrence '23

Meet economics major, Lucy Lawrence! Read why Lucy chose to attend Simmons and the one lesser-known item she recommends first-years have in their dorms.