Overview

The History of Public Policy at the University of California, Santa Barbara offers a rigorous academic framework that combines historical inquiry with the study of legal and social governance. This undergraduate programme is designed to equip students with the analytical tools necessary to understand the evolution of public policy across different eras and regions.

The curriculum focuses on training students to critically evaluate policy-related problems by examining primary and secondary sources. Participants gain competence in historical writing and research methods, including quantitative and digital approaches. The programme encourages a comparative perspective, looking at how diverse societies have managed state formation, welfare, and environmental use.

Why History of Public Policy at the University of California, Santa Barbara?

The programme is distinguished by its emphasis on experiential learning and interdisciplinary breadth. Students benefit from the university's strong connections to major policy hubs through the UC Washington (UCDC) and UC Sacramento (UCCS) programmes. These initiatives allow students to live and work in political epicentres while earning academic credit.

The Department of History provides a supportive environment with access to specialised research clusters, such as History and Political Economy. Facilities include the extensive UCSB Library and various affiliated centres that foster a collaborative intellectual culture. The faculty's expertise spans global history, ensuring a well-rounded education in public affairs.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14934 per year
National fee: USD 14934 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum includes foundational gateway courses and advanced research seminars. Modules may include:

History of the Present
Great Issues in the History of Public Policy
History of Public Policy and Law Senior Thesis Seminar
Senior Honors Seminar

Careers with History of Public Policy

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional paths in law, government, and public administration. The programme provides a strong foundation for those seeking roles as policy analysts, legal researchers, or public advocates. Many students transition into law school or pursue advanced degrees in public policy and international relations.

Practical experience is gained through various internship opportunities in the local community and beyond. Students have previously engaged with organisations such as the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara, the District Attorney’s Office, and the Environmental Defense Center. These placements offer direct insight into the civil justice system and non-profit administration.

Programme Structure

Courses

History
Philosophy
Political Science
Economics
Global Studies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-30 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

History Public Policy View 320 other Bachelors in Public Policy in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

3.0 GPA For California residents

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

The University of California sets slightly different criteria for applicants who are not California residents. If you are an out-of-state applicant, you must meet the same admission requirements as a California resident student.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Out-of-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for History of Public Policy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Barbara

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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