Economics + Public Policy (3+1)
Transform lives through public policy
Combining a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a Master of Arts in Public Policy, this highly interdisciplinary program is built on the belief that the political process can bring about social change.
This 3+1 dual-degree program will position you to make a difference at local, national, and global levels. You'll use your vision, compassion, and insight to make a positive impact.
Coursework in the first three years draws on our rigorous liberal arts curriculum to provide a strong foundation in economics. Master's level coursework in public policy begins by the end of the third year and culminates in an intense and practical Capstone Project in Public Policy.
Boston's vibrant legislative, non-profit, and advocacy resources offer opportunities for real-world learning. The Capstone blends your internship experience with the opportunity to address real policy issues in a substantial written work.
You'll graduate with a command of public policy analysis and a deep understanding of the different contexts in which policy is developed and implemented. You'll be ready to lead and implement real change.
Spotlight on Economics + Public Policy Students and Alums
Six Students Selected for the 2026 Senior Scholar Award
Six graduating seniors have been selected for the prestigious Senior Scholar Award at Simmons University. Sponsored by the Provost’s Office and the Office of Research and Fellowships, the Senior Scholar Award recognizes outstanding scholarly research and creative works across a variety of disciplinary fields.
International Honors Student Studies Economic Development
Paulina Rodas Mejia ’26, a double major in economics and international relations, is pursuing research in economic development. We spoke with her about her interdisciplinary interests, the honors program, and being an international student from Honduras at Simmons.
Alumna Brings Joy of Discovery to Children and Families
Marie Beam ’95 is the Chief Executive Officer of the Discovery Museum in Acton, MA. We spoke with her about nonprofit work, her stimulating education at Simmons, and the value of curiosity.
Simmons Economics Alumna Champions Change
Linda Rossetti ’86 is an entrepreneur, author, and researcher who specializes in transformational change. We spoke with her about navigating life’s changes and the supportive relationships she formed at Simmons.
What Can You Do with a BA in Economics?
Are you fascinated by how our economy works? Are you curious about how we produce and distribute goods and services to meet the demands of today? A career as an economist may be the right path for you.
Finding Home Far Away from Home
Amarachukwu Iyke-Uzonwa ’25 shares her experience as a first-generation college student and an international student at Simmons and shares advice for incoming students. Iyke-Uzonwa is a double major in Information Technology and Cybersecurity and Economics.
Protecting Workers and Finding Community at Simmons
Master's degree student April Beatty ’25MPP discusses her research, internship experience, finding community at Simmons, and the best thing about attending graduate school in Boston.
Building a Family History at Simmons
Nearly a century ago, Anna T. Kenney attended Simmons College, majoring in Secretarial Studies. Now, Kenney’s great-granddaughter, Annie Doherty ’26, has followed in her great-grandmother's footsteps to Simmons.
Our Faculty
Leanne Doherty
Vice Provost
Masato Aoki
Associate Professor
Zinnia Mukherjee
Professor
Niloufer Sohrabji
Professor and Program Director for Economics
Gregory Williams
Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director, Master of Public Policy