Public Policy Analysis: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Public Policy Analysis is a multidisciplinary field dedicated to evaluating the development, implementation, and impact of government policies across social, economic, and environmental domains. This program equips students with the analytical tools and critical thinking skills necessary to assess policy effectiveness, anticipate unintended consequences, and contribute to evidence-based decision-making in public and nonprofit sectors.
- Policy Evaluation Methods: Techniques for measuring the outcomes of policy initiatives, including cost-benefit analysis, impact assessment, and performance monitoring.
- Quantitative and Qualitative Research: Advanced data collection and interpretation strategies to inform policy decisions, using statistical models and case study analysis.
- Public Administration and Governance: Understanding institutional structures, bureaucratic processes, and leadership dynamics within governmental and non-governmental organizations.
- Policy Design and Implementation: Strategies for crafting effective policy solutions and navigating the practical challenges of translating plans into action.
- Ethical and Equity Considerations: Critical examination of fairness, access, and justice in policy formulation to ensure inclusive and sustainable outcomes.
- Regulatory Analysis: Assessment of rules and regulations governing industries, public services, and environmental standards.
- Urban and Regional Policy: Focus on planning, infrastructure, housing, and economic development in local and metropolitan contexts.
- Global and Comparative Policy Studies: Cross-national analysis of policy approaches to challenges such as climate change, healthcare, and migration.
Public Policy Analysis Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Public Policy Analysis Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Public Policy Analysis degrees, including . These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements.
Career salary data is not available for this program.
Top Universities for Public Policy Analysis by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 9 institutions offering Public Policy Analysis programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Public Policy Analysis is found at University of Southern California (USC) (48 graduates), The New School (15 graduates), Syracuse University (8 graduates), Portland State University (PSU) (5 graduates), and Tuskegee University (TU) (2 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 83 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Southern California (USC) |
Master's
Post-Master's
|
48 | Los Angeles, California | Private | usc.edu |
| The New School |
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
15 | New York, New York | Private | newschool.edu |
| Syracuse University |
Postbac Cert.
|
8 | Syracuse, New York | Private | syracuse.edu |
| Portland State University (PSU) |
Postbac Cert.
|
5 | Portland, Oregon | Public | pdx.edu |
| Tuskegee University (TU) |
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
2 | Tuskegee, Alabama | Private | tuskegee.edu |
| Harvard University |
Doctorate (Research)
|
2 | Cambridge, Massachusetts | Private | harvard.edu |
| The Catholic University of America |
Master's
|
1 | Washington, District of Columbia | Private | catholic.edu |
| University at Albany (UAlbany) |
Post-Master's
|
1 | Albany, New York | Public | albany.edu |
| Empire State University |
Postbac Cert.
|
1 | Saratoga Springs, New York | Public | sunyempire.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Public Policy Analysis programs
Which universities have the largest Public Policy Analysis programs?
Currently 9 accredited institutions offer Public Policy Analysis degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of Southern California (USC) (48 graduates), The New School (15 graduates), and Syracuse University (8 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Public Policy Analysis growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 1 in 2010 to a peak of 94 in 2020, before declining slightly to 83 in 2023-24. This represents a 8,200% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
Related Public Services Programs
Explore similar degree programs within the Public Services field. These programs share the same academic discipline and may offer complementary skills and career pathways.
Forensic Social Work
A program that prepares individuals to serve as social workers in correctional facilities, mental health hospitals, the justice system, substance abuse treatment programs,...
Social Work
Any program providing instruction in social work and related services not listed above.
Public Administration and Social Services
Any instructional program in public administration and services not listed above.
Community Organization and Advocacy
A program that focuses on the theories, principles, and practice of organizing and providing services to communities. May prepare individuals to apply such...
Public Administration
A program that prepares individuals to serve as managers in the executive arm of local, state, and federal government and that focuses on...
Public Works Management
A program of study that focuses on public works management skills and public works operation. Includes instruction in accountability, budget, conflict resolution strategies,...