Georgia Southern introduces hands-on Public Policy degree

September 11, 2025

Georgia Southern University has established a new Bachelor of Science in Public Policy program, offering students a hands-on education designed to prepare them for careers with a real impact. The applied degree program is focused on equipping students with the essential tools and knowledge needed to develop sustainable solutions for the challenges facing communities today.

The curriculum provides a blend of academic rigor and practical, real-world experience. Students learn to analyze societal issues, develop evidence-based solutions and advocate effectively for policies that improve lives and drive meaningful change.

“At Georgia Southern, we are committed to offering programs that not only expand access to higher education but also prepare students to address workforce needs and make a tangible difference in their communities,” said Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Avinandan “Avi” Mukherjee, Ph.D. “The Bachelor of Science in Public Policy reflects our mission to combine academic excellence with real-world application, ensuring our graduates are ready to lead with vision, integrity, and impact.”

The Bachelor of Science in Public Policy works well for traditional (pre-career) college students but is also structured for non-traditional adult learners.

“This is a fully online degree program and Georgia Southern is one of only a handful of schools in the University System of Georgia to offer an undergraduate degree in public policy,” stated Trenton Davis, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Public and Nonprofit Studies. “The program is also asynchronous, meaning there are no set meeting days or times. This provides students with the flexibility to learn and complete coursework around their schedules.”

The program is military-friendly and is especially relevant for service members, veterans and those preparing for public service careers. Graduates can choose a path that aligns with their goal to make a difference in today’s world, whether it’s shaping local, state or federal government policy, supporting nonprofit advocacy, advising businesses on public impact issues or conducting research in policy think tanks. The Bachelor of Science in Public Policy is offered through the Department of Public and Nonprofit Studies within the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at Georgia Southern University. Additionally, a minor in public policy is open to all majors. The department also leads the Master of Public Administration program. It is accredited by the nationally-recognized Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) and offers flexible on-campus and fully online executive track options. For more details, email: publicadmin@georgiasouthern.edu.