The Power to Shape the Future: What You can do With a Degree in Public Policy

In today’s increasingly complicated world, making a positive impact rarely comes easily.

But there are avenues to create the change that you seek. To find which to take, you need to ask yourself the following questions: 

• Do you like to break down complex issues?
• Can you solve problems in creative ways?
• Want to articulate solutions to diverse audiences?

If you answered yes to any of those question, you may be well-equipped for a career in public policy—and you could change imprint on our society.

Whether it’s confronting climate change, community justice, or artificial intelligence ethics, a bachelor’s degree in public policy allows you to cultivate the knowledge and skills necessary to confront some of the biggest problems facing society. 

What will you study in a public policy degree program?

In order to be prepared to assess and analyze a myriad of policies in a wide range of sectors—such as public, private, and nonprofit—any public policy major must be immersed in an interdisciplinary, project-based environment. A public policy degree from Illinois Tech combines insights from politics, economics, sociology, government, law, infrastructure, and more to help a student address the most pressing issues of our time.

Public policy majors spend their time perfecting skills in policy analysis, applying sophisticated research and analytical tools to develop best practices, and understanding the democratic decision-making processes. 
 

What can you do with a degree in public policy?

In short: a lot! A graduate in public policy is prepared to step into exciting roles, not only within government, but also in the private sector, academia, and nonprofit organizations. Career paths include urban planner, policy advocate, legislative aide, think tank researcher, defense intelligence analyst, legislator, and many others.

Public policy majors at Illinois Tech work alongside community leaders, engineers, entrepreneurs, and experts every day. You could design and implement policies for affordable housing, working with government agencies to develop sustainable solutions combating climate change, or crafting policy to improve health care outcomes and equity. If it’s an issue worth tackling, you can bet there’s someone in the public policy field who’s working on it.

What sort of person does well in the field of public policy?

There’s no one-size-fits-all template for the best person to get into public policy. One trait they must share: a desire to craft a better, more sustainable, and a more just future. They enjoy working with others to solve real-world problems. They are the advocates, activists, policymakers, and, most importantly, they are the leaders of tomorrow.

They also have a passion for impacting change at a societal level, they’re a strategic problem-solver, and they have a desire to understand diverse perspectives. 

Are you ready to drive positive change and create a better future? A bachelor’s degree in public policy just might be the perfect path for you! Learn more about Illinois Tech’s public policy program.