University of Michigan

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme combines core training in microeconomics, statistics and research methods with courses on policy design, programme evaluation and ethics. Early coursework typically covers introductory economics, introductory statistics or probability, and foundations of public policy and public administration. Intermediate and advanced modules focus on causal inference, econometrics, cost–benefit analysis, benefit–cost models, regulatory policy, public finance and institutional analysis.

• Core quantitative methods: statistics for social scientists, regression analysis and experimental design
• Policy theory and institutions: political behaviour, comparative public policy and policy process
• Applied evaluation: programme evaluation, data visualisation, GIS and policy modelling
• Sector specialisms (examples of elective clusters): health policy, environmental policy, education policy, urban and transport policy
• Capstone and practicum: an applied research project or policy lab placement with an external partner, supported by faculty supervision

Students are encouraged to take complementary courses across the University—for example, public health, law, economics, sociology, urban planning or computer science—to tailor their training to career goals. Many students also pursue internships with government agencies, non‑profit organisations, think tanks or private consultancies as part of their degree.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Michigan is competitive and based on a holistic review of secondary school academic performance, personal statements and letters of recommendation. For this programme, successful applicants typically demonstrate strong performance in quantitative subjects (mathematics, statistics, or economics where available) and evidence of interest in public affairs or civic engagement.

• Academic background: a high school diploma or equivalent with strong grades; coursework in algebra and preferably calculus and statistics is recommended.
• Application materials: a personal statement explaining interest in public policy, academic transcripts, and at least one academic reference.
• International applicants: proof of English proficiency where required and documentation equivalent to required national credentials.
• Transfer students: official college transcripts and demonstration of readiness for intermediate quantitative coursework; prior coursework in statistics or economics will be advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across the public, private and third sectors. The programme equips students with skills in data analysis, policy evaluation and written and oral communication that employers value.

• Public sector: policy analyst or researcher at local, state/provincial and national government agencies
• Non‑profit and international organisations: programme officer, monitoring and evaluation specialist or advocacy analyst
• Think tanks and research institutes: research assistant or associate focusing on evidence synthesis and policy briefs
• Private sector: management or policy consulting, regulatory affairs, data analytics roles in firms that engage with public policy issues
• Further study: many graduates go on to postgraduate degrees such as an MPP, MSc in public policy, law (JD), public health (MPH) or doctoral research

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers access to broad interdisciplinary resources and applied policy opportunities. Students benefit from faculty who are active in empirical research, links with the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy and collaboration across schools including public health, law, business and urban planning.

• Applied learning: practicum courses, policy labs and internship networks connect students with government agencies, non‑profits and private sector partners in Ann Arbor and beyond.
• Research strengths: opportunities to work with research centres and faculty on quantitative projects, field experiments and large administrative data analyses.
• Career support: campus career services and established alumni networks help students secure placements in public service, consulting and research roles.
• Campus environment: a vibrant academic community with student organisations focused on civic engagement, public policy debates and community service.