FAQs
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What is public policy?
Public policy encompasses principles, laws, regulatory measures, courses of action and/or priorities created by a governmental body. The underlying values and outcomes of public policy not only exist in traditional government, whether local, national or international, but also in private companies, nonprofit organizations and community-based organizations. A public policy degree is designed to empower students to have the tools and skills necessary for understanding and shaping public policy. -
What kind of jobs can I get with a BA/BS Public Policy degree?
BA/BS Public Policy graduates will have a diverse set of skills for employment in all areas of the public, private and nonprofit sectors, and will benefit from the Hobby School's extensive network of contacts.For example, recent employers of our Master of Public Policy alumni include Air Alliance Houston, American International Group Inc., British Consulate General Houston, CHILDREN AT RISK, Drug Enforcement Agency, Fort Bend County Office of Emergency Management, Harris County Budget Management, Harris County Public Health, Harris County District Attorney's Office, Houston-Galveston Area Council, Institute for Human Rights and Business, Invesco, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Office of Texas State Representative Mary Gonzalez, Office of U.S. Congressman Randy Weber, Rice University's Kinder Institute for Urban Research, Texana Center, Texas Civil Rights Project, Texas Legislative Budget Board, United Healthcare, U.S. Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.
The average starting salary of a BA/BS Public Policy graduate will vary greatly by sector, geography and work experience. For example, entry-level policy analysts average over $50,000, and executive positions can earn over $100,000.
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What is the difference between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS)?
Most of the BA and BS degree is similar. The primary difference is the BA requires more foreign language-related classes and the BS requires more mathematics-related classes.Although this is a generalization, students that excel more at writing compared to math would likely prefer the BA, and students that are strong in math or want to improve these skills should consider the BS.
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How many hours are needed to complete the BA/BS Public Policy program?
Students need to complete 120 credit hours to earn the BA/BS.The BA/BS Public Policy degree plan and transfer guides will be posted when available.
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How do I apply for the BA/BS Public Policy program?
Incoming FreshmenFor complete details on how to apply, visit the Undergraduate Admissions page.
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What are the application deadlines for the BA/BS Public Policy program?
The Spring 2022 priority deadline for domestic and international applicants will be Oct. 1, 2021. The Spring 2022 application deadline for international applicants is Nov. 1, 2021, and for domestic applicants is Dec. 1, 2021. -
Does the Hobby School have an undergraduate minor?
Yes, the Hobby School now has a minor in Public Leadership. -
How do I change my major, add BA/BS Public Policy as a double major, or add Public Leadership as a minor if I'm a current UH student?
Current UH students who wish to change their majors to the Hobby School's BA/BS Public Policy, add BA/BS Public Policy as a double major, or add Public Leadership as a minor must have established at least a 2.00 minimum cumulative UH GPA. Students must complete the requirements of the BA/BS Public Policy based on the catalog year requirements in effect at the time the major was declared.Students with less than a 2.00 grade point average are encouraged to obtain academic advising from the Hobby School. However, they are not eligible to officially change their major until the required GPA is attained.
In order to formally request a major change, double major, or minor, students should download and complete the Undergraduate General Petition and e-mail this to Scott Mason at smason@uh.edu for review.
This form must be submitted by the Hobby School at least two weeks prior to the start of the next term for this major change to potentially be accepted for that term.
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What are the application fees for the BA/BS Public Policy program?
The application fee for undergraduate domestic students is $75 and $90 for undergraduate international students. -
What semesters offer admission to the BA/BS Public Policy program?
TBeginning Spring 2022, the BA/BS Public Policy programs offer admission for the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters. -
How much does the BA/BS Public Policy program cost?
For more information on program costs, please visit the Undergraduate Costs & Financial Aid page. -
What scholarships and other financial aid is offered?
Each semester, eligible students can receive a Hobby School Excellence Scholarship. The Hobby School Excellence Scholarship is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible. In addition, other scholarships, grants and loans are available.For more information, please visit the Financial Aid page.
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Is the BA/BS Public Policy program offered online?
While some classes can be completed online, it's currently not possible for a student to completely earn this degree by only taking online classes. -
When are BA/BS Public Policy program classes held?
Classes are mostly held during the weekday in the mornings and afternoons, but some classes are offered in the evenings and online. -
What is the process for registering for classes as an incoming or current student?
Vist the following pages for more information about registering for classes: Enrollment Ready! (during Orientation) and Enrollment Ready! (Current Students) -
Can I transfer courses from another school?
Yes, and the Hobby School encourages transfer students. UH and the Hobby School will evaluate student transcripts to determine how many credit hours transfer and which classes can be counted toward the degree plan, but we will always try and allow for the most benefit to the student. -
What is the process for graduation and commencement?
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Who should I contact if I have any questions about the application process for the BA/BS Public Policy program?