{"id":4,"date":"2024-07-18T19:23:07","date_gmt":"2024-07-18T19:23:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/biology-new\/?page_id=4"},"modified":"2026-04-02T16:12:14","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T16:12:14","slug":"program","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/","title":{"rendered":"Public Policy"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"pl-4\"  class=\"panel-layout\" ><div id=\"pg-4-0\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-0-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-0-0-0\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-first-child\" data-index=\"0\" ><div class=\"widget_text smcm-intro-section panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-4-0-0-0\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><h2>Nurture your passion for politics.<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-0-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-last-child\" data-index=\"1\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p>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.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-0-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-0-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"2\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-4\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54363443310_a7749e493d_c.jpg\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54363443310_a7749e493d_c.jpg 799w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54363443310_a7749e493d_c-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54363443310_a7749e493d_c-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54363443310_a7749e493d_c-272x182.jpg 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" alt=\"A man in a suit speaks to a group of people standing in a formal room with flags, a fireplace, and a large portrait in the background.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-1\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-1-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-1-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-gold-buttons panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"3\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-gold-buttons so-widget-smcm-gold-buttons-default-d75171398898-4\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><nav class=\"smcm-gold-buttons\"><ul><li><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/directory\/posc\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-regular fa-address-book\"><\/i>Meet the Political Science &amp; Public Policy Department<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-right smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#about-the-major\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-circle-info\"><\/i>About the Major <\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#honors-college-promise\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-handshake\"><\/i>Honors College Promise<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/li><li><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#washington\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-building-columns\"><\/i>Washington Program<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#csd\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-building-columns\"><\/i>Center for the Study of Democracy<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#pre-law\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-building-columns\"><\/i>Pre-law<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/li><li><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#after-you-graduate\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-graduation-cap\"><\/i>After you Graduate<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/political-science-and-public-policy-studies\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-bell\"><\/i>Stay Up to Date with Public Policy<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-right smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#stay-up-to-date\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-building-columns\"><\/i>Student Resources<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-2\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-4-2\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-2-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-2-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-card-container panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"4\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-card-container so-widget-smcm-card-container-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-card-container\"><div class=\"card factcard red \"><h3 class=\"topText\">94%<\/h3><div class=\"supportingText\"><p>career outcome rate: employed, in school, volunteering, or in the military (Class of 2023)<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"card factcard lightblue \"><h3 class=\"topText\">29<\/h3><div class=\"supportingText\"><p>Study Abroad programs for students<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"card factcard navy \"><h3 class=\"topText\">10:1<\/h3><div class=\"supportingText\"><p>SMCM's student-to-faculty ratio supports students through their time on campus and beyond<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-3\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-3-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-3-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"5\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-4\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/52486793314_0f775f7dab_c-e1753881163991.jpg\" width=\"533\" height=\"647\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/52486793314_0f775f7dab_c-e1753881163991.jpg 533w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/52486793314_0f775f7dab_c-e1753881163991-247x300.jpg 247w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px\" title=\"52486793314_0f775f7dab_c\" alt=\"Four people stand indoors next to a Center for the Study of Democracy sign; three wear matching blue shirts, and one is in a suit.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-3-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-3-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"6\" ><div id=\"about-the-major\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-4-3-1-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\">Public Policy <strong>Major<\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-3-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text\" data-index=\"7\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p>Public policy decisions touch nearly every aspect of daily life, even if we fail to recognize or understand their impact.<\/p>\n<p>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.<\/p>\n<p>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 &#8211; American public policy or International public policy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><div id=\"panel-4-3-1-2\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-last-child\" data-index=\"8\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><div class=\"smcm-ac-buttons\"><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.smcm.edu\" class=\"acalog smcm-cta-button red\" data-acalog-data=\"programs\" data-acalog-program-name=\"Public Policy, BA\" data-acalog-link-text=\"Public Policy Major Requirements\" data-acalog-catalog-type=\"Catalog\">Public Policy Major Requirements<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.smcm.edu\" class=\"acalog smcm-cta-button red\" data-acalog-data=\"degree_planner\" data-acalog-program-name=\"Public Policy, BA\" data-acalog-link-text=\"Planning your Public Policy Major\" data-acalog-catalog-type=\"Catalog\">Planning your Public Policy Major<\/a><\/div>\n<!-- See Programs section on catalog.smcm.edu for fullDegreeName value --><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-4\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-4-4\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-4-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-4-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"9\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\">Courses <strong>Offered<\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-4-0-1\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-last-child\" data-index=\"10\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><div class=\"smcm-ac-buttons\"><div class=\"smcm-accordion\"><div class=\"title-container\"><h3>Public Policy Courses<\/h3><i class=\"fa-solid fa-plus open-close\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"smcm-accordion-content\"><div class=\"smcm-ac-content-wrapper\"><ul class=\"acalog\" data-acalog-data=\"courses\" data-acalog-course-type=\"Public Policy\" data-acalog-catalog-type=\"Catalog\">Public Policy Courses><li><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<!-- See Programs section on catalog.smcm.edu for fullDegreeName value --><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-5\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-4-5\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-5-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-5-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"11\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button navy\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheet\/pub?key=0Akvdhs5bfON-dDl5dnlsZTZkSHJGYndnMlV5QjJsakE&amp;output=html\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-book-open-reader\"><\/i>Topics \/ Experimental Courses<i class=\"fa-solid fa-arrow-up-right-from-square\" style=\"color: #e9e9e9;\"><\/i><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-5-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-5-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"12\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button navy\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheet\/pub?key=0Akvdhs5bfON-dHJ4djRHaDd2Nmktcm9xYUlxOVg1M0E&amp;output=html\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-book-open-reader\"><\/i>Cross Disciplinary Studies Courses<i class=\"fa-solid fa-arrow-up-right-from-square\" style=\"color: #e9e9e9;\"><\/i><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-6\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-6-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-6-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"13\" ><div id=\"honors-college-promise\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-4-6-0-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\">Honors College <strong>Promise<\/strong> <\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-7\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-7-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-7-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"14\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p>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.<\/p>\n<p>At St. Mary&#8217;s College of Maryland, you&#8217;ll benefit from experienced professors, unlike at larger universities where teaching assistants may lead classes. You\u2019re more likely to have the same professor for multiple courses, work with them on your St. Mary\u2019s Project, or have them as your academic adviser.<\/p>\n<p>When you need letters of recommendation for jobs or grad school, you\u2019ll 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\u2019s College unique compared to larger schools.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-7-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-7-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"15\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-4\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168432_e033bed9bb_c.jpg\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168432_e033bed9bb_c.jpg 799w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168432_e033bed9bb_c-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168432_e033bed9bb_c-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168432_e033bed9bb_c-272x182.jpg 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" alt=\"A man in a suit speaks to a group of people standing in a marble-floored hallway with columns and ornate lighting.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-8\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-8-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-8-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"16\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button navy\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/academics\/undergraduate-research\/\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-book-open-reader\"><\/i>Research Opportunities<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-8-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-8-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"17\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button navy\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/careers-in-public-policy\/#internships\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-briefcase\"><\/i>Internships<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-8-2\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-8-2-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"18\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button navy\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/ie\/\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-plane-departure\"><\/i>Study Abroad<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-9\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-9-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-9-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-quote panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"19\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-quote so-widget-smcm-quote-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-quote gold\"><div><p>\"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.\"<\/p><p class=\"quote-attribution\">- Nicole Gibson '24, Political Science and Public Policy Double Major with a minor in Spanish<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-10\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"hsac\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-4-10\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-10-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-10-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"20\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-4\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168552_9a995256a1_c.jpg\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168552_9a995256a1_c.jpg 799w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168552_9a995256a1_c-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168552_9a995256a1_c-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54362168552_9a995256a1_c-272x182.jpg 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" alt=\"Two men in suits shake hands and smile in a formal room, while others stand and observe in the background.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-10-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-10-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"21\" ><div id=\"washington\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-4-10-1-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\"><strong><\/strong>Washington<strong><\/strong> <strong><\/strong>Program<strong><\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-10-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"22\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>In 2012, the St. Mary\u2019s 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-10-1-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"23\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/academics\/the-washington-program\/\">Learn more about the Washington Program<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-11\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"hsac\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-4-11\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-11-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-11-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"24\" ><div id=\"csd\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-4-11-0-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\"><strong><\/strong>Center<strong><\/strong> <strong><\/strong>for<strong><\/strong> <strong><\/strong>the<strong><\/strong> <strong><\/strong>Study<strong><\/strong> <strong><\/strong>of<strong><\/strong> <strong><\/strong>Democracy<strong><\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-11-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"25\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>The Center for the Study of Democracy was founded in 2002 as a joint initiative of St. Mary\u2019s College and its partner institution, Historic St. Mary\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-11-0-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"26\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/democracy\/\">Learn more about the Center for the Study of Democracy<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-11-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-11-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"27\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-4\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54460788825_1cf27676dc_c.jpg\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54460788825_1cf27676dc_c.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54460788825_1cf27676dc_c-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54460788825_1cf27676dc_c-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" title=\"Photo by Chuck Steenburgh\" alt=\"Four men sit at a panel discussion table in front of an audience, with banners, a projector screen, and flags behind them at the Center for the Study of Democracy event.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-12\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"hsac\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-4-12\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-12-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-12-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"28\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-4\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54032980434_81e642c786_c.jpg\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54032980434_81e642c786_c.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54032980434_81e642c786_c-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/212\/2025\/07\/54032980434_81e642c786_c-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" alt=\"Two people are seated on stage having a discussion, with an American flag and banners for the Center for the Study of Democracy in the background.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-12-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-12-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"29\" ><div id=\"pre-law\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-4-12-1-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\"><strong><\/strong>Pre<strong><\/strong>-<strong><\/strong>law<strong><\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-12-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"30\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>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.<\/p>\n<p>The College\u2019s Core Curriculum and Senior Experience courses help students grow these skills in different ways, no matter the major.<\/p>\n<p>Pre-law students can choose any major at St. Mary\u2019s College. While many students major in political science, it\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-12-1-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"31\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/preprofessional\/pre-law\/course-selection\/\">Learn more about Pre-law<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-13\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div id=\"after-you-graduate\" class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-4-13\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-13-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-13-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"32\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\">After you <strong>Graduate<\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-13-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"33\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>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.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-13-0-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"34\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/careers-in-public-policy\/\">Careers in Public Policy<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-13-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-13-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"35\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<div class=\"smcm-feed-horizontal-container\"><div class=\"smcm-feed-horizontal-row smcm-story\"style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/stories\/surisitee-motiram-23-fulbright-recipient-english-teaching-assistant-award-colombia\"><div><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/images\/surisitee_motiram_web.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/div><h3>Surisitee Motiram \u201923 - Fulbright Recipient - English Teaching Assistant Award - Colombia &raquo;<\/h3><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-14\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-14-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-14-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"36\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\"><strong>LATEST<\/strong> NEWS<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-15\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-15-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-15-0-0\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-first-child\" data-index=\"37\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><div class=\"smcm-feed-horizontal-container\"><div class=\"smcm-feed-horizontal-row\"style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/professor-diana-boros-publishes-new-book-routledge\"><div><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/convert_to_webp_only\/public\/news\/2026\/04\/DBoros_portrait_0.jpg.webp?itok=rLWAS4ET\" alt=\"\"><\/div><h3>Professor Diana Boros publishes new book with Routledge<\/h3><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-feed-horizontal-row\"style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/news\/2026\/02\/four-named-fulbright-semi-finalists\"><div><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/convert_to_webp_only\/public\/news\/2026\/02\/Fulbright_Web.png.webp?itok=G1EjYaxc\" alt=\"\"><\/div><h3>Four Named Fulbright Semi-Finalists<\/h3><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-feed-horizontal-row\"style=\"width:33.333333333333%;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/news\/2025\/11\/new-book-mary-hall-draws-upon-civil-war-diaries\"><div><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/convert_to_webp_only\/public\/news\/2025\/11\/Mary-Hall-portrait.jpg.webp?itok=IG7L3UiL\" alt=\"\"><\/div><h3>New Book by Mary Hall Draws Upon Civil War Diaries<\/h3><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-15-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"38\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/news\/category?field_news_post_category_target_id=56\">More Public Policy News<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-16\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-16-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-16-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"39\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<div class=\"smcm-feed-dh-wrapper\"><div class=\"smcm-feed-dh-container\"><h2>Connect with Your Program Chair<\/h2><p class=\"smcm-dh-info\">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.<\/p><div class=\"smcm-feed-dh-items\"><div class=\"smcm-feed-dh-row\"><div>  <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/2025-07\/Near%20and%20Far%20Waters%20Lecture%20Closeup%202_1.png\" width=\"1164\" height=\"1078\" alt=\"A man in a suit speaks at a podium with a microphone in front of a sign for the Center for the Study of Democracy at St. Mary&#039;s College of Maryland.\" class=\"restdept56\" \/>\n\n<\/div><div class=\"smcm-dh-label-container\"><a class=\"smcm-dh-name\" href=\"https:\/\/inside.smcm.edu\/directory\/antonio-ugues-jr\">Antonio Ugues Jr.<\/a><p><strong>Department Chair<\/strong><\/p><p>Associate Professor of Political Science<\/p><a class=\"smcm-dh-email\" href=\"mailto:augues@smcm.edu\">augues@smcm.edu<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-4-17\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-4-17\" ><div id=\"pgc-4-17-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-17-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"40\" ><div id=\"about-the-minor\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-4-17-0-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\">PROGRAM <strong>Minor<\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-17-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text\" data-index=\"41\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p>MINOR BLURB<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><div id=\"panel-4-17-0-2\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html\" data-index=\"42\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><div class=\"smcm-ac-buttons\"><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.smcm.edu\" class=\"acalog smcm-cta-button red\" data-acalog-data=\"programs\" data-acalog-program-name=\"EX. Biology, BS\" data-acalog-link-text=\"EX. Program Name Major or Minor Requirements\" data-acalog-catalog-type=\"Catalog\">EX. Program Name Major or Minor Requirements<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.smcm.edu\" class=\"acalog smcm-cta-button red\" data-acalog-data=\"degree_planner\" data-acalog-program-name=\"EX. Biology, BS\" data-acalog-link-text=\"Planning your EX. Program Name Major or Minor\" data-acalog-catalog-type=\"Catalog\">Planning your EX. Program Name Major or Minor<\/a><\/div>\n<!-- See Programs section on catalog.smcm.edu for fullDegreeName value --><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-17-0-3\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"43\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"careers-in-PROGRAM\/#grad-school\">Graduate School<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-4-17-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-4-17-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child\" data-index=\"44\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-4\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-17-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title\" data-index=\"45\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\">Stay <strong>Connected<\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-4-17-1-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"46\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button navy\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"\"><i class=\"fa-brands fa-instagram\"><\/i>Follow us on Instagram<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>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.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":245,"featured_media":209,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"full-width-content","footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-4","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"entry"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/245"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":235,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4\/revisions\/235"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/209"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/program-public-policy\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}