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Canadian Public Policy


Canadian Public Policy is an interdisciplinary program examining public decision-making and policy processes related to environmental, social, health, and economic policy.

Overview

Canadian Public Policy is an interdisciplinary program examining public decision-making and policy processes related to environmental, social, health, and economic policy.

The Canadian Public Policy program provides an adaptable and broad knowledge base for students interested in all levels of Canadian-based policy work, giving students a strong foundation in policy analysis and implementation.

This involves understanding the public policy process, policy analysis, intergovernmental relations, economic forces and political considerations.

At a Glance

Degree options
Bachelor of Arts (BA), major
Minor

Curriculum

At ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison, the Canadian Public Policy program is inter and multi-disciplinary with students completing a common core set of courses anchored in political science and economics.

Throughout the process students engage with contemporary and historical issues to critically assess the inclusiveness, fairness and effectiveness of public policy making given time and resource constraints.

Topics of study include:

  • theories and processes of public policy-making
  • analysis of public policy fields like environment, health, and education
  • political leadership in Canada
  • Canadian federalism and intergovernmental relations
  • social and legal issues and policies in regional, national, and international contexts
  • organizational behaviour, financial and management accounting

To develop and deepen their interest, students select optional streams drawn from the disciplines of:

Canadian Public Policy is available as:

  • BA major (60 credits)
  • Minor in any degree (24 credits)

Not sure about the difference between a major, a minor, an honours, and a certificate?

Faculty Spotlight

Dr. Mario Levesque
Associate professor, Politics and International Relations

» ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison professors in sciences, social sciences recognized with Paul Paré Awards

Careers

Whether you're entering the job market or continuing your education, your ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison degree will stand out.

ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison has been recognized by Maclean's as the top primarily undergraduate university in Canada more times than any other university.

The Canadian Public Policy program prepares students for potential careers in the public service (local, provincial, federal) and non-governmental organizations or in the private sector.

Key skills learned include critical thinking (policy analysis, policy process knowledge, public service norms), writing (policy analysis reports, policy briefs, cabinet memos) and communication (written, oral, online).

Popular career paths for Canadian Public Policy graduates include:

  • public policy/business analyst
  • lawyer
  • municipal administrator
  • government relations officer
  • not-for-profit sector
  • policy researcher
  • policy consultant
  • lobbyist
  • legislative/executive assistant (for MPs, provincial representatives)

 

Testimonials

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Canadian Public Policy is the perfect program for somebody looking to get involved in government, public or private sectors, learn the skills of research and writing, and overall have a well-rounded degree. With the support of a tight-knit department this program opens doors and opportunities you may never have thought possible.


HarleyAnn
Siddall
'24
BA Canadian Public Policy and Political Science, minors in International Politics, Canadian Studies
Miramichi River Valley, NB

/current-students/department-politics-and-international-relations

Bachelor of Arts

Admission Requirements

Our admissions decisions are based on your academic record, leadership skills, a high level of commitment, and the potential for personal growth. The drop down menu below will help you find information on what pre-requisites are recommended for a Bachelor of Arts.

Academic Awards

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ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ A is #2 in student awards


²Ñ²¹³¦±ô±ð²¹²Ô’s ranks ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison second in student and faculty awards in its latest University Rankings. To date, 56 ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Allison students have become Rhodes Scholars — one of the best per capita records in Canada.

Next Steps

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