Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

The Policy Studies BS offers a mix of core social science courses, methodological training and applied projects. Core subjects typically include public policy theory, public administration, comparative public policy, ethics and law in public affairs, and policy analysis. Students receive substantial training in quantitative methods and research design — statistics, econometrics, data visualisation and survey methods — alongside qualitative methods such as case study research and interviewing.

• Foundations of public policy and political institutions
• Research methods and applied statistics for policy analysis
• Economics for public decision making and cost–benefit analysis
• Program evaluation, implementation and performance management
• Policy fields such as environmental policy, health policy, science & technology policy, and urban/regional policy
• Legal and ethical dimensions of policymaking
• Electives drawn from economics, sociology, political science, data science and engineering

A distinctive feature of the WPI experience is project work: students normally complete an interdisciplinary Major Qualifying Project (MQP) that applies classroom learning to a real client or community‑based policy problem. The curriculum emphasises teamwork, communication and the practical use of data tools (GIS, statistical software and policy visualisation) so graduates are ready for both analytical and managerial roles.

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a strong secondary school record with coursework that demonstrates readiness for quantitative and analytical study; mathematics and social science subjects are particularly helpful. Worcester Polytechnic Institute considers the whole application, including academic transcripts, personal statement, recommendation letters and evidence of extracurricular engagement. Standardised test submission may be optional; applicants should check the university’s current admissions policy. International applicants are expected to meet English language proficiency standards.

Typical successful candidates for the Policy Studies programme show curiosity about public affairs, experience with community or civic projects, and a capacity for both written and numerical analysis. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and descriptions of prior coursework to enable proper placement into the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BS in Policy Studies from WPI are prepared for a range of entry‑level and early‑career roles that require policy analysis, data literacy and project management skills. Common career paths include:

• Policy analyst or research assistant in government agencies, legislatures and public bodies
• Program evaluator or monitoring and evaluation specialist for non‑governmental organisations and foundations
• Research or policy associate at think tanks and advocacy organisations
• Compliance, regulatory affairs or public affairs roles in the private sector
• Consultancy positions focusing on public sector clients or socially‑oriented projects
• Further study in public policy (MPP), public administration (MPA), law (JD) or graduate research in social sciences

The programme’s emphasis on applied projects and data skills also positions graduates for roles that bridge technical teams and policy stakeholders, such as technology policy advisors, sustainability coordinators and urban planners.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI combines a strong technical and quantitative orientation with liberal‑arts and social‑science perspectives, making it well suited for students who want to bring analytical rigour to public policy problems. The university’s signature project‑based curriculum gives Policy Studies students sustained experience working on client‑centred projects, including opportunities through the Global Projects Program to tackle policy challenges in international settings.

Students benefit from small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, collaborative interdisciplinary programmes across departments (economics, computer science, environmental studies), and direct access to internship and research opportunities in the Worcester and greater Boston region. The programme’s practical focus on data analysis, communication and implementation prepares graduates to move quickly into careers where they can influence policy design and outcomes.