Online Bachelor of Science in Public Service and Public Policy
A Bachelor of Science in public service and public policy can position you to build valuable knowledge and abilities for roles in the government and nonprofit sectors. You can hone skills related to leadership, policy development and analysis, management and more. The public service and public policy degree curriculum emphasizes enabling positive change in local, national and global communities.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/13/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
What is a public service and public policy degree?
A public service and public policy degree focuses on the challenges and opportunities present in nonprofit and governmental organizations at all levels. As a student, you’ll take courses developed to specifically address the unique nature of how these groups operate. Transforming public service and policy, as well as serving a variety of communities, are core concepts.
The curriculum offers a professional view of policy, management and leadership. Through this perspective, you can develop the competencies needed to serve in a variety of positions related to these key functions of government and nonprofit organizations.
Gain public service and public policy skills
Specific skills developed through an online public policy degree include:
- Analyzing policy and understanding how it’s crafted.
- Developing useful and realistic solutions for specific problems.
- Identifying and acting on opportunities for positive change.
- Leading individuals and teams.
- Working within the structures and operational rules common to governments and nonprofits.
What industries hire public service and public policy graduates?
Public service and public policy degree careers are normally found in the public and nonprofit sectors. You can access a wide range of career options within these two sectors and seek positions that align with your professional interests. Graduates go on to careers in municipal, state and federal government, as well as a variety of nonprofits.
Will my public service degree say 'online'?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.
Public service and public policy degree courses
With courses centered on policy and leadership, the curriculum of this public service and public policy degree offers a path for focused learning related to key issues in policy and administration. You can expect to cover topics such as persuasive writing on public issues and the connections between economics and policy, among many others. Featured courses include:
What can you do with a public service and public policy degree?
While concentrated in two specific sectors, public service and public policy degree careers are numerous and diverse. With the knowledge and talents developed through this program, you could lead a local nonprofit or government department, or take on a management role in a larger organization. Specific career examples include:
Advocate
Community Specialist
General Manager (GM)
Government Programs Specialist
Human Behavior Researcher
Human Resources Specialist (HR Specialist)
Paralegal Assistant
Political Analyst
Politician
Experienced scholars, educators and practitioners in public policy
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.
Experienced scholars, educators and practitioners in public policy
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.
Online public policy degree admission requirements
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Nationally recognized public service programs
The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.
#1
best graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.
#2
in the U.S. and #7 in the world for hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism, according to the Center for World University Rankings.
Top 5
Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management in the nation, according to U.S. News & Report.
Top 10
best online master's in criminal justice programs for veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
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