Online Bachelor of Science in Public Service & 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: 01/08/2024
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Degree questions, answered.
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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.
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:
PAF 200: Public Service and Policy in the 21st Century
PAF 201: Economics and Public Policy (SB)
PAF 301: Applied Statistics (CS)
PAF 302: Public Service Research Methods
PAF 311: Leadership and Change (SB)
PAF 340: Contemporary Policy Challenges
PAF 400: Senior Capstone Project
PAF 460: Public Service Ethics
What can you do with a public service and public policy degree?
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
Faculty
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions are inspiring the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues around child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Recent 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
Faculty
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions are inspiring the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues around child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Recent 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 are considered a first-year student for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).
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.
Solving problems and inspiring positive change
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 public service programs, from public policy, to social work, to criminal justice, to emergency management, are designed to help prepare our diverse student body to make a difference in the community.
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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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