Overview

The Public Policy programme at University of California, Riverside provides students with a robust interdisciplinary foundation designed to address complex societal challenges. This degree focuses on developing research and analytical expertise that is highly transferable across various professional sectors and policy issue areas. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical management skills.

Why Public Policy at University of California, Riverside?

University of California, Riverside holds the distinction of housing the first undergraduate public policy major within the entire University of California system. This pioneering status ensures a curriculum that is both established and innovative, tailored to produce successful post-graduate outcomes. The School of Public Policy provides a unique environment where students can engage with specialised policy solution centres.

The institution offers distinctive facilities such as the Center for Geospatial Sciences and the Presley Center of Crime and Justice Studies. These resources allow students to explore regional and global solutions through a multidisciplinary lens. The programme's integration with active research centres provides a rich academic atmosphere that bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world policy application.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 52536 per year
National fee: USD 52536 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

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

Careers with Public Policy

Graduates of the programme are prepared for a wide range of professional paths in public employment, including roles within federal, state, and local government agencies. The analytical skills gained are equally valued in the private sector, particularly within the policy advocacy departments of for-profit firms. This versatility allows alumni to navigate various industries effectively.

Beyond government and corporate roles, the degree supports careers within non-profit organisations and international policy bodies. Students are equipped to take on positions as policy analysts, researchers, and administrative managers. The focus on transferable skills ensures that graduates can adapt to the evolving demands of the global job market and contribute to meaningful social change.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Public Policy Analysis

Politics and Public Policy

Ethics, Professionalism, and Public Policy

Geographic Information Systems

Case Studies in Public Policy

Borderline Immigration Policies and Community Change Process

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-30 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Riverside, United States

Disciplines

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

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Academic requirements

GPA

You must have a GPA of 3.0 or better (3.4 for nonresidents) in the A-G courses, with no grade below a C.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

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

You will need your:

Test scores

Annual income (optional)

Social Security number (if you have one)

Citizenship status

Statewide student ID (optional)

Credit card (or check)

Order Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to be sent.

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

52536 USD / year

≈ 52536 USD / year
Out-of-State

52536 USD / year

≈ 52536 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Riverside

United States

1100 - 1600 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 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

Riverside

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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