A major in public policy studies teaches students how to make a difference in the complex policy issues of today.
Coursework provides skills in political and economic analysis, knowledge about how to lead people and organizations, and a strong ethical foundation for decision-making. As a liberal arts major, public policy teaches students to read critically, think analytically, and write concisely. A policy-oriented internship is required.
You will learn to
Think analytically
Lead people and organizations
Engage in solving social problems
Students in the Major Will:
- Enhance skills in political and economic analysis
- Articulate more concisely and clearly through critical analyzations
- Consider the implications of actions to make strong and ethical decisions
- Participate in a policy-oriented internship
Additional Program Options
We offer two undergraduate certificate programs, which consists of 4-8 courses that span multiple disciplines or departments.
You do not need to be a Public Policy student to enroll in the certificate programs.
THE CHILD POLICY RESEARCH CERTIFICATE
The child policy research certificate is designed to teach students how to:
- Analyze issues facing children, families, and society
- Learn the necessary analytical skills to study these issues with empirical rigor
- Engage in research that informs policy and practice
THE health POLICY CERTIFICATE
The health policy certificate is designed to:
- Educate students in evidence-based health policy analysis, development, and implementation so they are prepared to address complex challenges in health and health care at local, state, national, and global levels
The Journalism & Media minor replaces the Policy Journalism & Media Studies certificate, which the DeWitt Wallace Center has been offering for the past 20 years. The Journalism & Media minor serves students aspiring to become journalists, as well as those seeking to pursue other private and public sector media-related careers.
The 4+1 Accelerated Master of Public Policy is an opportunity for Duke undergraduate Public Policy majors to complete both an undergraduate and master’s degree in five years. Majors who are able to pursue graduate-level coursework during their senior year are eligible to apply in the spring of their junior year. Students will complete the entire 51 graduate credits required for traditional 2-year MPP students.
Learn more about the 4+1 Accelerated Master of Public Policy.
Leadership Focus
Sanford is filled with people who want to make a difference. Take the inaugural Public Purpose Symposium, hosted by the Hart Leadership Program. The Symposium included discussions on how to find purpose, impact and leadership while at Duke and a poster session featuring more than 30 student projects, ranging in topics from AI’s impact on the music industry to community healthcare challenges to urban playground design. The day fostered reflection, connection and a shared commitment to leading with purpose.