Policy Analysis and Management

Faculty Research Interests

The Policy Analysis and Management (PAM) major prepares students for leadership as policy makers, analysts, and managers in both the public and private sectors. Many students also use the PAM major to prepare for professional school (law, business, and medical school) or graduate programs. The major's unique strength stems from its combination of robust theory and practical application. Students will learn to integrate analytical thinking, research and data analysis skills, and policy implementation strategies to understand the effects of public and private policies on people's lives.

PAM majors employ theories and methods from economics, sociology, government, and psychology to analyze public policy impacts on society. In the major students will learn to apply theories designed to explain the development of government policies addressing social issues and how private corporations interact with government to affect the well-being of society. Furthermore, students will learn to analyze management and policy decisions that affect individuals, groups, businesses, and different sectors of society.

The curriculum focus is United States public policy in the areas of health care, consumer, and family/social welfare. The major provides opportunities for on- and off-campus undergraduate internships and field experiences that enhance the learning environment. PAM students are strongly encouraged to incorporate a significant experiential component into their course of study.

Please visit the College Admissions site for advice on applying.

Video Clip Matt Eisenberg and Professor Rosemary Avery talk about research and student life in Policy Analysis and Management.

PAM Honors Program
The honors program, which leads to a B.S. degree with honors in Policy Analysis and Management, gives official recognition to students who have demonstrated excellence in their academic work and their capacity for independent study. In addition to fulfilling requirements for the major, students in the honors program participate in an Honors Seminar (PAM 4980) and prepare an honors thesis. Students work with a research mentor in preparing their thesis. Guidelines and Application.