Public Policy

B.A. Degree with a major in Public Policy

Shape the Future: Study Public Policy at UMF

The University of Maine at Farmington’s online interdisciplinary bachelor’s degree in Public Policy prepares you to analyze policy problems and create, evaluate, and implement solutions at the local, state, and federal levels.

UMF’s Public Policy program offers flexible, entirely online and blended learning options to fit your schedule. Designed for professionals and aspiring leaders, it builds expertise in policymaking for careers in government, business, communications, and more. In partnership with the Maine Municipal Association, expert faculty teach core courses in public policy, policy analysis, and statistics, with opportunities to specialize in areas like health care, education, human rights, climate change, and environmental policy.

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Save more than $5,500 per year in tuition.

Through the NEBHE Tuition Break program, students from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont receive a $5,670 tuition discount on all UMF degree programs.

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What is public policy?

The field of public policy spans various disciplines, connecting any discipline’s focus with the laws, policies, and institutional framework surrounding that particular focus. Someone entering the world of public policy benefits from a broad knowledge of policy issues and specific information about how agencies operate.

In addition to connecting you with different academic disciplines across the Farmington campus, some Public Policy courses will be taught online at other University of Maine System campuses.

Discount on Tuition

UMF will provide a 10% discounted tuition rate of $275.40 per credit hour (for the 2024-25 academic year) to all eligible members of the Maine Municipal Association seeking any UMF credential in the Public Policy program.

To be eligible for the benefit, applicants must verify employment or status as an elected official with a Maine Municipal Association member municipality. Students will be responsible for all mandatory University-wide fees and course-specific fees.

What can I do with a degree in Public Policy?

It’s also an excellent foundation for law school, graduate studies in public administration or international relations, and leadership roles in both public and private sectors.

Government & Public Service

Policy analyst for local, state, or federal agencies
Legislative aide or government relations specialist
City/town planner or municipal manager

Nonprofits & Advocacy

Program manager for social services, environmental causes, or human rights organizations

Advocacy coordinator or campaign manager

Researcher for think tanks or policy institutes

Business & Consulting

Corporate social responsibility specialist
Public affairs or communications manager
Management or policy consultant

Specialized Fields

Health policy advisor
Education policy researcher
Climate and environmental policy analyst

Office of Admissions
246 Main Street
Farmington, Maine USA 04938-1994

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