Students are required to submit the Application for Admission to the Airline Certificate Program to the Department of Public Administration and Urban Affairs. An interview with the program coordinator is required. Specialized course work in human resources, combined with more general courses on urban issues, prepare graduates for entry-level positions in government agencies, private corporations and nonprofit development corporations. The curriculum builds upon the urban studies core, providing a broad overview of local government structure and function. This specialization is appropriate for students who want to pursue careers or further study in the planning, development and management of communities.
Courses introduce students to forces shaping the development of urban regions.
Special attention is paid to planning for economic development, environmental quality, housing, land use, neighborhood revitalization, and transportation. During their studies, students learn about the variety of policies and strategies that citizens and planners can use to influence development. The public policy specialization is designed especially for students pursuing the policy focus within the urban policy studies major. With this specialization, students may go on to positions as governmental policy analysts, journalists, public affairs specialists in private businesses, or any of a number of other positions involved with public policy and public affairs. This specialization also provides excellent preparation for subsequent graduate study in law, public policy, public administration, and related fields.