Georgia Institute of Technology

What you'll study

This programme combines core public policy foundations with strong training in quantitative methods, economics and data analysis. Typical course topics include microeconomics for policy, statistics and probability, econometrics, policy analysis and program evaluation, cost–benefit analysis, public management, ethics and governance, and fundamentals of law for public policy.

• Core analytical methods: descriptive and inferential statistics, regression, causal inference, survey methods and experimental design.
• Economics and finance for policy: microeconomics, public finance, fiscal policy and cost–benefit frameworks.
• Policy domains: health policy, environmental and energy policy, urban and transportation policy, education policy, and social welfare policy.
• Practice and application: policy lab/practicum, internship opportunities with government agencies or NGOs, and a capstone project that emphasises empirical evaluation of a real‑world policy problem.
• Interdisciplinary electives: access to courses in computing, engineering, urban planning and business to deepen skills in data science, GIS, modelling and organisational management.

Students typically follow a mix of required core courses, methods and statistics sequences, domain electives and a culminating senior project or capstone. Emphasis is placed on written and oral communication, quantitative literacy and ethical considerations in policymaking.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary (high school) qualification recognised by Georgia Tech and demonstrate strong academic preparation, especially in mathematics and analytical subjects. Typical preparation includes courses in algebra, precalculus or calculus, statistics, and writing or humanities. Admissions decisions consider the overall academic record, extracurricular engagement, personal statements and letters of recommendation.

• Academic background: evidence of achievement in quantitative coursework and rigorous academics.
• Skills: aptitude for analytical reasoning, comfort with quantitative methods and an interest in public affairs and policy issues.
• Additional materials: prospective students may be asked for academic transcripts and supporting statements; international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as specified by the Institute.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles that require analytical and policy‑oriented skills. Common career pathways include policy analyst or researcher roles in local, state and federal government; data or research analyst positions in think tanks and non‑profit organisations; management and consulting roles in private sector firms advising on regulation, public affairs or corporate social responsibility; and positions in international organisations.

Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in public policy, public administration, law, economics or data science, or seek specialised professional training to advance in public service or research careers.

Why study at Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech’s public policy programme is distinguished by its quantitative, technology‑aware approach and its location in a major metropolitan hub. The School of Public Policy within the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to combine policy study with strengths in computing, engineering, urban analytics and business.

• Hands‑on opportunities: easy access to internships, practicum placements and partnerships with government agencies, civic organisations and industry across the Atlanta region.
• Research and resources: opportunities to engage with faculty research and campus centres working on urban systems, energy and environmental policy, public sector innovation and data analytics.
• Career support: on‑campus career services, employer networks and alumni connections that help students transition into public, nonprofit and private sector roles.

Overall, the programme is a strong choice for students who want a rigorous, data‑driven education in public policy combined with the interdisciplinary resources and professional connections of a leading technical university.