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JMU Major: Public Policy and Administration
Description of the Major | Degrees Offered | Concentrations | Minors |
Declaring the Major | Progressing in the Major

Description of the Major

The program in public policy and administration provides you with a foundation for careers in the private non-profit and public sectors. The major requires core courses in public administration, public policy, political science and economics. You may choose one of two concentrations. The public policy track focuses on how important public problems are addressed in our political system and provides the tools necessary for analyzing and evaluating policy solutions. The public management track prepares you to manage public and private non-profit organizations.

The department also offers a five-year masters program. Students interested in graduating in five years with both a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Public Administration degree can do so through the use of reserve graduate credit. Our faculty members combine practical experience with scholarly preparation. Our internship program allows you to receive on-the-job experience while completing your degrees. Our graduates manage cities and towns, work for federal, state and local government, manage non-profit organizations, and serve as policy analysts in both the public and private sectors.

Degrees Offered

B.S.

Concentrations

Public Management
Public Policy

Minors

Political Communication
Public Policy and Administration

Declaring the Major

New Freshmen and Transfer Students
Declare the public policy and administration major when you register for orientation.

Currently Enrolled Major Changers
Complete a "Change or Declaration of Major" form and obtain the signature of the department head in Miller Hall, room 2120.

Progressing in the Major

Remain in good academic standing with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0.