Public Policy, Philosophy and Social Policy Concentration George Washington University

Overview

The Public Policy, Philosophy and Social Policy Concentration at George Washington University provides a sophisticated interdisciplinary framework for students to explore the intersection of ethics and governance. This programme equips candidates with the analytical tools necessary to evaluate the normative and institutional backgrounds of modern policy decisions.

Students engage with a curriculum that balances technical proficiency in economics and quantitative methods with deep philosophical exploration. By examining case studies in areas such as healthcare access and environmental protection, learners develop a unique ability to apply logical inquiry to real-world social issues.

Why Public Policy, Philosophy and Social Policy Concentration at George Washington University?

Housed within the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, the programme offers a distinctive humanistic perspective on technical policy issues. It provides students with access to a diverse range of academic departments, including political science and economics, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

The curriculum is highly flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies through specific concentrations such as bioethics, urban policy, or environmental philosophy. This customisable approach ensures that graduates possess both broad methodological skills and specialised expertise in their chosen field of social policy.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 2091 per credit
• National fee: USD 2091 per credit
• Local fee: USD 2091 per credit

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 36 credits, including four graduate philosophy seminars and specific coursework in applied policy, economics, and research methods. Modules may include:

• U.S. Environmental Policy
• Science and U.S. Public Policy
• Urban Policy Problems
• Economics of the Environment and Natural Resources
• Economics for Public Decision Making
• Microeconomics for Public Policy
• Reading and Research in History and Public Policy
• Policy Analysis
• Politics and Policy Analysis
• Approaches to Public Policy Analysis
• Race and Urban Redevelopment
• Gender and Public Policy
• Gender, Welfare, and Poverty
• Research Methods and Applied Statistics

Students can further customise their degree by selecting electives that focus on particular policy areas, such as biomedical healthcare or welfare policy, depending on whether they choose the thesis or non-thesis graduation track.

Careers with Public Policy, Philosophy and Social Policy Concentration

Graduates are prepared for professional roles that require a blend of ethical reasoning and policy expertise. The programme provides the foundational skills necessary for careers in public office, policy advocacy, and research within governmental or non-governmental organisations.

By mastering the tools of philosophical inquiry alongside quantitative analysis, alumni are well-positioned to influence policy in sectors such as environmental protection, healthcare administration, and human rights. The focus on social values makes graduates valuable assets in any organisation dealing with complex normative issues.