Applying to public policy schools

I'm super interested in public policy and considering applying to some public policy schools for undergrad. Can anyone recommend a few public policy schools or programs that are known for having a strong reputation? Preferably ones that offer a lot of hands-on experiences and connections to future career opportunities.

There are several public policy schools and programs with strong reputations for their undergraduate programs. These schools typically have comprehensive curriculums, hands-on experiences, and connections to career opportunities. Here are a few options worth considering:

1. Georgetown University — Georgetown, known for its top-notch School of Foreign Service, offers a range of policy-related majors, such as International Politics, Regional Studies, and Science, Technology & International Affairs. Georgetown's location in Washington, D.C., provides students with ample hands-on experiences and internship opportunities in the public policy realm.

2. University of Michigan — The Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan offers the Public Policy major, where students can study topics like economics, political science, social policy, and quantitative analysis methods. The school regularly hosts policy professionals and experts for guest lectures and offers numerous opportunities for experiential learning, including internships and study abroad programs.

3. Princeton University — Princeton's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs offers a multidisciplinary major in Public and International Affairs. When combined with a policy task force and a senior thesis project, learners can gain extensive experience in policymaking in addition to benefiting from Princeton's strong academic resources.

4. Duke University — Duke's Sanford School of Public Policy offers a Public Policy major, with a curriculum encompassing ethics, economics, political science, and quantitative analysis. Duke's program emphasizes policy internships and service-learning projects, providing students with the chance to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations.

5. University of Chicago — The Harris School of Public Policy at the University of Chicago extends a unique undergraduate program called the BA/MPP, ideal for students who want to accelerate their studies in policy. It's a combined 5-year program resulting in both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Public Policy for those eager to fast-track their policy-focused careers.

These are just a few examples of policy programs at reputable schools. It's essential to research each school's specific program and consider factors like location, campus culture, financial aid, and extracurricular opportunities in your decision. Good luck with your applications!