Public Service and Public Policy
Monica Gaughan
About this opportunity
The BS program in public service and public policy provides comprehensive coverage of topics in public policy, leadership and management.
Students learn how to lead and influence change via public organizations and the policy process. They also gain foundational knowledge about democracy, economics and the role of government in society. The program is distinct because it balances theoretical knowledge and a professional focus.
Students can select one of the following concentration areas to supplement their core courses. Concentrations must be applied to separately:
- American Indian studies
- Business
- Criminology
- Emergency management and Homeland Security health policy
- Law and Policy
- Nonprofit Leadership and Management
- Parks and Recreation Management
- Science and Technology Policy
- Social Services Delivery
- Sustainability
Thesis
In order for students to complete a thesis in the field of PSPP, whether they major in PSPP or not, they must have completed PAF 200 Introduction to Public Service & Public Policy. The thesis project is developed with a faculty person who will help guide the student's research. Thesis committees must comprise of at least two members; the director is a regularly-appointed member of the ASU faculty, with professional expertise in the thesis project area and the second committee member can come from the faculty or larger community, as needed. Individual thesis projects may require a third reader. SPA faculty are committed to helping students develop and complete their thesis projects. Projects range from formal research projects to policy white papers and applied work. Completing a thesis will help prepare students for graduate level research and prepare them for a variety of careers.
Prior to enrolling in thesis credits all students must complete a thesis workshop. Students may complete this requirement in one of the following ways:
1. Through one of the various live-zoom or in-person sessions
2. The self-paced online workshop offered through Barrett via ASU Canvas
For more information about these opportunities please visit the Barrett website.
Academic Preparation
In order for students to complete a thesis in the field of PSPP, whether they major in PSPP or not, they must have completed PAF 200 Introduction to Public Service & Public Policy. PSPP honor students are encouraged to take a graduate level research course (PAF 501 Public Service Research I) as a substitute for PAF 301 or 401 Applied Statistics. Taking PAF 501 will earn students honors credit and help ensure they are prepared to engage in honors thesis-level research on a topic of relevance to the field.
Recommended Timeline
Questions about honors in the PSPP major can be directed to the faculty honors advisor, Monica Gaughan monica.gaughan@asu.edu
College
Watts College of Public Service and Community SolutionsCampus
Downtown