Objectives:

This minor is designed to introduce students to the study of public policy. The minor has four principal objectives. First, the student is taught the theoretical underpinnings of public policy understood as man (and society) as a rational actor open to behavioral changes through the manipulation of incentives. The second component of the minor focuses on the policymaking process in the United States. Third, the student is encouraged to learn practical methods of policy evaluation through methodological coursework. Last, the student selects one of three subfields (American Domestic Policy, National and Foreign Security Policy, and Environmental and Health Policy) in which to concentrate.

Competencies, Knowledge, or Skills to be Achieved:

Students completing the minor will gain insight into the factors that motivate change in individuals and society. He or she will understand the political processes that shape the formation of public policy from the academic or think tank setting to eventual implementation by the government. The student will be exposed to certain methodological strategies to gather information for better policy execution and policy evaluation. Furthermore, the student will have competence in one particular area of policy studies.