Ursinus College

What you'll study

The Public Policy Analysis major combines courses in political science, economics, statistics, and ethics to give you tools for analysing real-world policy problems. Core topics typically include public policy theory, policy evaluation and impact assessment, quantitative methods for social research, microeconomics and public finance, and ethics in public decision-making.

• Research methods and statistics for policy analysis (data collection, regression, causal inference)
• Public policy design and implementation (policy cycles, institutional analysis)
• Economics for public policy (cost–benefit analysis, market failures, taxation)
• Programme evaluation and performance measurement
• Legal and ethical dimensions of public action
• Advanced electives in areas such as education policy, health policy, environmental policy, urban policy and social welfare
• Capstone practicum or senior research project that applies analytical skills to a local or regional policy issue

Students are encouraged to combine the major with complementary minors (for example economics, data science, or environmental studies) and to take advantage of opportunities for applied learning such as internships with government agencies, non-profit organisations, advocacy groups or local research centres.

Entry requirements

Ursinus looks for students with a strong academic record in secondary school and demonstrable interest in social issues or civic engagement. Typical academic preparation includes coursework in mathematics (algebra and preferably statistics), social studies, and writing. Successful applicants often show experience in research, community service, debate, student government or related extracurricular activities.

• High school diploma or recognised equivalent with competitive grades across a broad curriculum
• Recommended preparation: mathematics (including algebra and statistics if available), social sciences and English composition
• International applicants must meet Ursinus’ standard English language proficiency requirements and provide equivalent academic documentation from their home country

Admissions decisions are holistic; personal statements, letters of recommendation and evidence of civic or community involvement strengthen an application. Specific GPA or test-score thresholds are not listed here—consult Ursinus College admissions for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Public Policy Analysis are prepared for a range of entry-level roles that require research, analytical and communication skills. Common career pathways include work in government agencies, municipal planning departments, legislative offices, non-governmental organisations, advocacy and policy think tanks.

• Policy analyst or research assistant with government or non-profit organisations
• Program evaluator or performance analyst for public-sector programmes
• Advocacy and community engagement roles with charities and interest groups
• Consulting positions that focus on public sector projects or social impact
• Further study in public policy, public administration, law, economics or related graduate programmes

Ursinus graduates benefit from the College’s alumni network, internship connections in the Philadelphia region and support from career services when transitioning into the workforce or applying to graduate school.

Why study at Ursinus College

Ursinus is a liberal arts college that emphasises small class sizes, close faculty mentoring and experiential learning. The Public Policy Analysis programme is designed for hands-on training: students work on real projects, complete a senior capstone, and secure internships that connect classroom learning with community and regional policy work.

Studying at Ursinus gives you access to personalised advising, opportunities for undergraduate research, and proximity to a large metropolitan area where internships and policy organisations are available. The college’s collaborative atmosphere and interdisciplinary approach help students develop the analytical, ethical and communication skills needed to influence public decisions effectively.