Public Policy Analysis melds traditional academic fields like economics or biology with hands-on policy study for future leaders.
Public Policy Analysis is a unique major for undergraduate study. We seek to provide a distinctive liberal education for leaders in our global society, who will face complex and challenging issues and decisions.
Our program is hands-on and problem-focused. We offer an array of analytical techniques, a wide perspective on social issues, and practical experience.
You’ll choose from 11 formal concentrations: anthropology, biology, chemistry, economics, environmental analysis, geology, physics, politics, psychology, science-technology-and-society, sociology or design your own.
Our seniors complete a 180-hour policy-related internship and a thesis.
What You’ll Study
- Four courses of public policy
- Statistical or quantitative methods
- A public policy elective like Education Politics and Policy
- Courses in your concentration
- Senior thesis and internship
Learning at Pomona
Bus Shelter Installation
Camille Green ’26 spent a semester researching bus shelter installation in Los Angeles for Prof. David Menefee-Libey’s Policy Implementation course. Her resulting research paper included interviews with city officials and private stakeholders.
Aiding Recovery Efforts
Katie Drais ’26 interned at the L.A. County Supervisor’s Office in fall 2025 and supported constituents recovering from the Altadena fires. She worked across departments to connect residents with DHHS services, gaining firsthand insight into how local government operates.
The Public Policy Major is unique in that all of our work is in the context of addressing real world issues that extend beyond just theory, and impact the lives of the communities, individuals and environments around us. The interdisciplinary nature of the PPA Major provides a holistic and widely applicable approach to all areas of study.