Nurture your passion for politics.
Discover the inner workings of government with a public policy major. Students will complete individualized research under the direction of supportive faculty. Many public policy students even gain competitive internships. Want to explore public policy at work in the world? Take advantage of one of our many study abroad programs.
94%
career outcome rate: employed, in school, volunteering, or in the military (Class of 2023)
29
Study Abroad programs for students
10:1
SMCM's student-to-faculty ratio supports students through their time on campus and beyond
Public Policy Major
Public policy decisions touch nearly every aspect of daily life, even if we fail to recognize or understand their impact.
Given the impact that policy choices can have on our lives, it is essential that we understand how these policies are created, processed and their influence on the general public.
The public policy major gives you the opportunity to do just that. Public policy students may choose from two disciplinary tracks within the public policy major – American public policy or International public policy.
Courses Offered
Public Policy Courses
- Public Policy Courses>
Honors College Promise
Expand your learning beyond the classroom with opportunities like studying abroad, internships, hands-on classes, or independent research. These experiences help you see the bigger picture.
At St. Mary’s College of Maryland, you’ll benefit from experienced professors, unlike at larger universities where teaching assistants may lead classes. You’re more likely to have the same professor for multiple courses, work with them on your St. Mary’s Project, or have them as your academic adviser.
When you need letters of recommendation for jobs or grad school, you’ll have professors who know you well and can write strong, detailed letters. This close relationship between faculty and students makes your experience at St. Mary’s College unique compared to larger schools.
"I am ecstatic to have been selected as a U.S. Fulbright Semi-Finalist for the English Teaching Assistant (ETA) Award in Argentina, and I am incredibly grateful for the support of my mentors, professors, family and friends throughout this process."
- Nicole Gibson '24, Political Science and Public Policy Double Major with a minor in Spanish
Washington Program
In 2012, the St. Mary’s College of Maryland Washington Program was born. Students receive a one of a kind experience as Washington interns. They experience the metropolis, learn about public policy and receive guidance from alumni working within the city’s public affairs field. Furthermore, students become better equipped to succeed in the competitive job market post-graduation and in one summer evolve into young professionals.
Center for the Study of Democracy
The Center for the Study of Democracy was founded in 2002 as a joint initiative of St. Mary’s College and its partner institution, Historic St. Mary’s City. It explores contemporary and historical issues associated with the ideas of democracy, liberty and justice in national and international contexts. It facilitates activities that strengthen democracy and the rule of law, enhance security and individual freedoms, invigorate civil society, encourage free enterprise, and increase economic, environmental, educational and cultural equity.
Pre-law
SMCM's pre-law program helps students plan for law school following advice from law schools and national organizations. There is no required major or class that guarantees success on the LSAT or in law school. Instead, we recommend taking challenging classes that build skills in problem-solving, speaking, writing and critical thinking.
The College’s Core Curriculum and Senior Experience courses help students grow these skills in different ways, no matter the major.
Pre-law students can choose any major at St. Mary’s College. While many students major in political science, it’s not required. SMCM students have successfully gone to law school with majors like biology, economics, English, history, math, philosophy and psychology. We encourage students to study subjects they enjoy and do well in.
After you Graduate
The public policy major prepares you for positions in a number of organizations directly related to public policy such as: business firms, trade associations, lobbying organizations and government agencies. The major also provides students with the factual, analytical, practical and theoretical skills necessary for many unrelated job fields or graduate school.
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All the faculty here at St. Mary's College of Maryland want to help you explore your interests and set you up for success. We look forward to connecting with you and meeting you on campus.
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