Susquehanna University

What you'll study

This programme combines political science, economics, statistics and ethics to prepare students to analyse public problems and design evidence-based solutions. Core themes include policy formulation, implementation and evaluation, with attention to both quantitative techniques and qualitative inquiry.

• Research methods and statistics: coursework in applied statistics, data analysis, and research design to support policy evaluation and empirical work.
• Microeconomics and public finance: foundational economics for understanding incentives, costs and benefits, taxation and budgeting in the public sector.
• Public policy theory and institutions: the role of government, policy-making processes at local, state and federal levels, and the institutional contexts that shape outcomes.
• Policy analysis techniques: cost–benefit analysis, program evaluation, regulatory analysis, and policy modelling.
• Qualitative methods: interviewing, case study methods, legal and ethical analysis, and stakeholder analysis.
• Electives and area studies: options to explore health policy, environmental policy, education policy, urban policy or international development depending on student interest.
• Experiential learning: practicum or capstone project applying analytic tools to a real policy problem, often in partnership with local government, non-profit organisations or industry.
• Internships: structured internships are strongly encouraged and supported to provide workplace experience in government agencies, think tanks, advocacy groups or consulting firms.

Entry requirements

Admissions to Susquehanna University consider academic preparation, letters of recommendation and a personal statement. Successful applicants typically have a strong college-preparatory high school record with coursework in the social sciences and mathematics.

• Academic background: high school diploma or equivalent with evidence of achievement in courses such as social studies, mathematics and writing.
• Standardised tests: Susquehanna's admissions policies include consideration of standardised test scores where submitted; check the university's current guidance on test-optional policies.
• Supporting materials: at least one or two letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining interest in public policy and relevant experience.
• International applicants: official secondary transcripts and proof of English proficiency where required (for example IELTS or TOEFL) and documentation of any required visa/immigration processes.
• Transfer students: college transcripts and typically a minimum number of transferable credits; specific requirements vary by programme and should be confirmed with the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Public Policy Analysis pursue a wide range of roles in the public, private and non-profit sectors. The programme's mix of research skills and practical experience makes alumni competitive for entry-level analytic roles and positions that require policy understanding.

• Policy analyst or researcher in local, state or federal government agencies.
• Analyst or programme officer in non-profit organisations, NGOs and advocacy groups.
• Consultant or research associate in policy consultancies and think tanks.
• Positions in public affairs, government relations or corporate social responsibility in the private sector.
• Further study: many graduates go on to master's programmes in public policy, public administration, economics or law.

Why study at Susquehanna University

Susquehanna's liberal-arts environment emphasises small classes, close faculty mentoring and a curriculum that integrates quantitative skills with ethical and historical perspectives. Students benefit from personalised advising and opportunities to engage directly with policy work through internships and capstone projects.

• Small class sizes: close interaction with faculty and opportunities for undergraduate research and independent projects.
• Interdisciplinary approach: easy access to courses across economics, political science, sociology and ethics to build a well-rounded policy skill set.
• Practical experience: strong encouragement and support for internships and practicum placements with regional governmental and non-profit partners.
• Career support: dedicated career services and alumni networks that help students secure internships and entry-level employment in policy-related fields.