Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme emphasises evidence-based policy making. Core topics include microeconomics and public finance, statistics for policy analysis, research design and program evaluation, and public administration. You will study the political and legal context of policy, ethics in public decision-making, and policy communication.

• Quantitative methods: applied statistics, econometrics, data visualisation, and data management, with opportunities to use statistical software and GIS for spatial policy analysis.
• Policy theory and practice: courses in policy analysis, regulatory policy, budgeting and public finance, and comparative public policy.
• Research and evaluation: experimental and quasi-experimental design, cost–benefit and cost-effectiveness analysis, qualitative methods and mixed-methods approaches.
• Communication and leadership: policy writing, advocacy and stakeholder engagement, ethical decision-making and administrative law.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a policy practicum or capstone project that applies classroom learning to a real-world problem, often completed in partnership with a government agency, non-profit, or private-sector client.

Elective options allow specialisation in areas such as health policy, environmental policy, urban policy, education policy, or technology and policy. Students frequently take complementary courses in computer science, statistics, economics, or business to deepen analytical skills.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires a secondary school leaving qualification equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma, with a record of strong academic performance. Admissions expects evidence of proficiency in mathematics and writing; courses in algebra, statistics, social studies and English are useful preparation.

• Standardised tests: RIT’s admissions policies on standardised tests may vary; consult the university for current guidance.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency is required if previous education was not in English (accepted tests and minimum scores are set by the university).
• Supporting materials: application essays, letters of recommendation and a résumé or list of extracurricular activities strengthen an application. Relevant volunteer, internship or leadership experience in community organisations or student government is advantageous.
• Transfer students: transfer credit is evaluated on a course-by-course basis; students transferring from community colleges or other universities should provide transcripts and course descriptions.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require policy analysis, data interpretation and evidence-based decision making. Common career paths include:

• Policy analyst or researcher in government agencies at local, state or federal levels
• Program evaluator or monitoring and evaluation specialist for non-profit organisations and international development agencies
• Legislative aide, public affairs specialist or advocacy professional
• Data analyst or analyst in think tanks, consultancy firms and private-sector organisations working on regulatory or public-sector issues
• Further study leading to a master’s in public policy, public administration, law or related social science disciplines

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT offers a strong applied approach to policy education, combining classroom instruction with substantial experiential learning. The university is known for its cooperative education programme and internship connections that help students gain workplace experience and professional networks while completing their degree.

• Interdisciplinary strengths: access to resources across social sciences, computing and business allows students to build quantitative and technical skills valued by employers.
• Applied learning opportunities: capstone projects, practicum placements and partnerships with local government, non-profits and industry help students apply analytical methods to real policy challenges.
• Research and centres: students can work with faculty engaged in policy-relevant research and use campus facilities for data analysis, GIS and modelling.
• Career support: dedicated career services and employer relationships in the Rochester region and beyond assist with internships, co-op placements and post-graduate employment.

Combined, these features make RIT suitable for students who want a practical, data-driven education in public policy that prepares them for both professional roles and graduate study.