Why major in public policy: career paths, skills, and opportunities

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Key takeaways about public policy majors

Public policy majors explore how laws and government actions affect society.
You’ll study economics, statistics, ethics, and political science.
It’s great for analytical thinkers passionate about change.
Careers range from government to nonprofits to private consulting.
Grad school options include law, public administration, and political science.

If you’re passionate about creating positive change and curious about how laws, regulations, and decisions get made, a public policy major could be your perfect fit. Whether you're dreaming of working in government, launching a nonprofit, or influencing decisions behind the scenes, this major opens doors.

What is a public policy major?

Public policy majors learn how to design, analyze, and evaluate policies that shape everyday life—from climate laws to education reforms. You’ll explore the intersection of politics, economics, ethics, and data to understand how decisions are made and how to improve them.

Public policy vs. political science

They’re related but different. Political science is more about understanding political behavior and institutions. Public policy focuses on designing and analyzing solutions to real-world problems. If you want to make change, policy is the action side of politics.

Common coursework and specializations for public policy majors

This major combines classes from multiple disciplines. You’ll likely take:

Intro to public policy
Micro and macroeconomics
Statistics for policy analysis
Political science and governance
Ethics and public leadership
Policy writing and communication

Specializations might include environmental policy, health policy, education policy, or urban development.

Analytical and research skills I'll learn as a public policy major

Expect to build skills in data interpretation, statistical analysis, and research methods. You'll learn how to evaluate policies based on evidence, propose improvements, and communicate findings clearly and persuasively—skills that transfer to tons of careers.

Is public policy right for me?

Ask yourself: Do I care about how society works? Do I enjoy solving complex problems and looking at issues from many sides? Am I good at research and communicating ideas? If that sounds like you, public policy might just be your zone.

Top careers for public policy majors

Policy analyst
Legislative assistant
Urban or regional planner
Nonprofit manager
Government relations specialist
Consultant for public affairs

Salary potential for public policy majors

Graduates with a degree in public policy can pursue careers in government, nonprofits, research, and advocacy, with earnings that vary widely by role. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, those in the public policy and social services field earn a median annual wage of about $52,000, though specialized positions like political scientists ($139,380), economists ($115,440), and urban planners ($83,720) can command much higher salaries. Your earning potential will depend on your career path, level of education, and whether you work in the public, private, or nonprofit sector.

Grad school pathways for public policy majors

Many public policy grads go on to earn advanced degrees. Common options include:

Master of Public Policy (MPP)
Juris Doctor (JD)
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
PhD in Political Science or Public Affairs

Notable schools for public policy majors

Explore scholarships and tools

Looking to fund your public policy degree? We’ve got you covered. Use Scout College Search to find schools that align with your goals, and Scholly Scholarships to discover awards tailored to your skills and interests. You can also explore scholarships by major—including public policy—and easily apply for Sallie’s $2,000 No Essay Scholarship to help make your degree more affordable.