UPenn Public Policy Major?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior and I've recently become interested in public policy. Can anyone tell me more about the public policy program at the University of Pennsylvania? How competitive is it and what kind of opportunities can I expect from it? Thanks in advance!

The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) offers a public policy major (called Philosophy, Politics and Economics: Public Policy & Governance) through its College of Arts & Sciences. The major is interdisciplinary, allowing students to integrate coursework from various fields to provide a foundation in public policy analysis and decision-making.

The public policy major at UPenn is not as competitive as majors like Wharton's business program, but you should still strive to maintain a strong academic record and showcase your extracurricular involvement. Additionally, demonstrating genuine interest in the field through relevant activities or experiences can boost your application.

As a public policy major, you'll have access to numerous opportunities both on and off-campus. The Penn Wharton Public Policy Initiative (PPI) plays a significant role in providing resources and information related to public policy by organizing events, panels, and discussions featuring experts from diverse sectors.

Students can also take advantage of the Penn in Washington program, which allows them to spend a semester in Washington, D.C., interning at various government and policy-related organizations while continuing their coursework. This immersive experience will provide you with hands-on experience and networking opportunities crucial in the public policy field. UPenn also has various student organizations, including the Penn Public Policy Consulting Club and Penn Political Union, which can further your involvement and exposure to public policy issues.

In terms of post-graduation prospects, public policy graduates from UPenn go on to pursue careers in government, nonprofits, think tanks, consulting, and private sector roles. The university's strong alumni network and career services will aid in your job search and guide you in securing internships and full-time opportunities in your desired sector.

Overall, the public policy program at UPenn offers a well-rounded and comprehensive education in public policy analysis, along with numerous resources, opportunities, and connections to help you succeed in the field. It's essential to highlight your passion for public policy in your application and participate in relevant extracurricular activities to stand out as a strong candidate.

If you're unsure how to showcase your fit for the program and are looking for tips, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle UPenn's school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-upenn-supplemental-essays. Best of luck with your application!