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.
Students make course selections with adviser approval.