What would I study for a BA in Public Policy? How can I apply?
The Ford School Bachelor of Arts in public policy is a liberal arts degree based in the social sciences. The Ford School gives students the knowledge and skills needed to analyze policy problems, understand the stakes, and create viable solutions.
Students design focus areas that allow them to develop a deeper understanding of a policy area that interests them. Focus areas can address an area of public policy, a perspective on public policy, or the policy issues concerning a specific geographic region. Examples of past student focus areas include: Energy Policy, Health Care Policy & Infectious Disease Control/Prevention, Economic Perspectives on Public Policy, Historical Perspectives on Foreign Policy, Development Policy in Southeast Asia, and Middle Eastern Policy.
Students who are already enrolled at the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor apply to the program during their sophomore year and are admitted to the Ford School for their final two years. Before beginning the program, students must have junior standing and must complete the following prerequisites:
- Principles of Economics I (Econ 101)
- Principles of Economics II (Econ 102)
- One course from Race and Ethnicity (RE)
- One introductory social science course, such as Systematic Thinking about Problems of the Day (PUBPOL 201)
Students must receive a C- or better in any prerequisite and core courses.
A short application can be completed online via the Ford School website and is available beginning in October through Feb. 1. The application requires you to submit your resume, an unofficial copy of your University of Michigan transcript, and three short essays about your interest in policy. Additionally, if you completed any college–level coursework outside of the University of Michigan, you'll need to upload an unofficial copy of those transcripts, as well.