BA Government - Public Policy

What Is Public Policy?

A passion for serving others and the desire to make the world a better place are the reasons why students choose to study public policy. Enroll in the Bachelor of Arts in Government with an Emphasis in State and Local Public Policy degree program at Grand Canyon University, and examine how ethical political leadership can make a difference. Offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, this government degree explores the complex facets of political behaviors and ways to apply this information to affect positive social change.

This bachelor’s in public policy degree surveys the framework of local and state governments. There is a focus on the political and social landscape of Arizona. On-campus students find the learning community at GCU to be particularly dynamic and informative, given its close proximity to county, city and state headquarters.

What Is a Bachelor of Arts in Government Public Policy?

The BA in Government with an Emphasis in State and Local Public Policy degree prepares students for a constantly changing political landscape. Students learn how to process complex information and communicate it in ways that are accessible to a wide variety of audiences.

Ethical and creative problem-solving is at the heart of a public policy degree. Students examine historic and modern problems facing American communities, and explore ways of addressing these issues in an ethical manner that is aligned with the Christian perspective. Public policy students have a passion for bringing about positive change, and this degree guides them in learning how to bring their visions to reality.

What You’ll Study for a Government & Public Policy BA Degree

The government degree builds foundational knowledge regarding the American government, American Constitution and international affairs. Students then take an in-depth look at state and local governance, political theories, municipal government and public policy analysis. Some of the core competencies covered by this degree program include:

• The American Constitution from its colonial origins to the present, including key concepts such as the separation of powers
• Qualitative and quantitative methods for researching politics, such as hypothesis testing, inference and causal reasoning
• The impact of policy making on public opinion, interest groups and governing institutions
• Contemporary topics in federalism that impact state and local communities, including health care, transportation, homeland security and environmental protections

Additionally, senior students take the Government Capstone course, which explores career opportunities in governing entities and agencies at the local, state and federal levels.

Career Opportunities with a Bachelor of Arts in Government - Public Policy Degree

This government degree with a specialization in public policy equips graduates to pursue rewarding careers in service to their communities. Some jobs that may be related to this degree include the following:

• Legislative aide or correspondent
• Research analyst
• Public administrator
• Regulatory affairs specialist
• Campaign worker

Public policy majors may venture into the corporate or nonprofit arenas. They may pursue work as advocates or lobbyists for the reform of health care, education, human rights or security. Graduates may also run for an elected office in order to directly serve the interests of their local or state communities. Upon graduation, you may decide to further refine your skill set and knowledge by pursuing a graduate degree.