The major in public policy introduces students to the use of analytical techniques to better understand public problems and evaluate alternative solutions to those problems. Examples of such problems include income inequality, the cost of health care, climate change, and the lack of an immigration policy.
Bloustein School provides students a unique opportunity to pursue their passion for public service and research and offers bachelor degrees in five major fields. The school also offers seven minor programs. With an undergraduate population of approximately 800 students, the Bloustein School is small enough to offer students individual academic support and the focus of a professional school, but large enough for students to enjoy all the benefits, resources, and opportunities of a leading public research university.
First Semester Planning
We recommend that students register for approximately 15 credits each semester and no more than 16 credits in their first semester. Your schedule should be well-balanced and include coursework from a variety of subjects. A diverse schedule will help you begin your studies in potential majors and minors; explore a breadth of new knowledge across departments at Rutgers to meet SAS Core Curriculum learning goals; and survey broader academic interests through elective courses as you work to attain the required 120 degree credits for graduation.
Your schedule will look something like this:
College Writing or English course per placement results (3 credits) Major Exploration course (3-4 credits) Major or Minor Exploration course (3-4 credits) Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits) Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits) Byrne or First-Year Interest Group Seminar (FIGS) (1 credit) Total Credits: 15-16 |
Major Exploration Course(s) Recommended for Incoming First-Year Students
Introductory courses recommended by faculty. Include at least one of these in your schedule:
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
Intro to Planning, Policy & Health |
10:775:101 |
3 |
Public Health (832) |
Introduction to Public Policy | 10:833:102 |
3 |
Public Policy (833) |
Principles of Public Administration and Management | 10:843:209 | 3 | Public Administration and Management (843) |
Course recommendations beyond this department
Your first year of college is an opportunity for you to explore fields of interest to enhance your understanding of yourself, the world around you, and your main academic and career goals. Think of your schedule as including courses you must take (English, courses to explore potential majors, etc.) and courses you can take (everything else!) All courses are part of your degree - if necessary, review the components of the SAS degree on this page.
Through these degree components, you will curate your own unique educational experience - but we understand that this level of flexibility and freedom can feel overwhelming for new students. Like a recommendation based on a book or TV show you enjoyed, the information below can help you identify related courses to consider in your first semester.
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
American Government | 01:790:104 | 3 | Political Science (790) |
Intro to Micreconomics | 01:220:102 | 3 | Economics (220) |
Quantitative Methods of Psychology | 01:830:200 | 4 | Psychology (830) |
Minority Groups in American Society | 01:920:108 | 3 | Sociology (920) |
Data 101 | 01:198:142 | 4 | Computer Science (198) |
Additional information Beyond the Classroom
For your first semester, we want you to focus on selecting appropriate courses, begin to understand the expectations and rigor of college, and identify resources to help you succeed at Rutgers. But, we also know that it is important to provide information for future planning.
In addition to the information below, students interested in exploring possible career options may find this resource from the Office of Career Exploration and Success helpful - you'll find that a degree in this subject prepares you for a wide variety of career options!
What opportunities exist in the department for beyond the classroom learning (internships, research, field work, etc.)?
Public Policy students are required to complete a semester-long internship.
Opportunities are available for students interested in pursuing research with faculty.
Students are able to take part in semester and summer study abroad experiences through Rutgers Study Abroad.
Is there a departmental Honors track or program?
Public Policy majors are eligible for the Bloustein Honors Research Program (BHRP), which is a two-semester program for students in their senior year. Students must apply and be selected for this program – https://bloustein.rutgers.edu/undergraduate/bloustein-honors/.
Please provide information on the careers obtained by recent graduates:
The Public Policy major prepares students for entry-level jobs in government, politics and public affairs within the public, non-profit or private sectors; or for graduate education in law, politics, public administration, public affairs, and public policy.
Specific examples of job titles and employers can be found here: https://careers46.rutgers.edu/public/new_webpage_CareerMajorsNew.cfm?major_id=92.