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Bachelor of Arts in Public Affairs

Prepare for a Career in Public Service and Governance

The public affairs program at WSU Vancouver prepares students for rewarding and meaningful careers in public service and governance. The Bachelor of Arts in Public Affairs helps you understand how governments and public institutions operate, as well as how people can actively make an impact.

Students can tailor the degree to their personal goals with five different tracks of study. Regardless of which path you choose, you will examine policy, law, administration, and leadership. The curriculum focuses on developing ethical, engaged, and competent professionals who rely on evidence-based reasoning and practice to work effectively for the public good. Through this coursework, you will gain hands-on experience that prepares you for roles in government, nonprofit organizations, advocacy, or future graduate study.

Degree Requirements
More information

Prospective Students

Find your personal admission counselor
Email Address van.admissions@wsu.edu
Phone (360) 546-9788

Current Students

Email Address van.casadvising@wsu.edu
LocationCollege of Arts and Sciences
Phone (360) 546-9620
120 Credits required
5 Program tracks of study
1:14 Faculty-to-student ratio

What will you do with a public affairs degree?

As a public affairs major, you’ll explore public policy, political institutions, law, administration, and ethics. Courses address issues such as justice and equity, environmental politics, governance, and international affairs—while strengthening your ability to conduct research and communicate your findings to others.

  • Learn how decisions get made and how to influence them, from local community issues to national policy debates.
  • Build strong critical thinking and research skills by asking tough questions, weighing evidence, and understanding different perspectives.
  • Develop confident communication skills that help you write clearly, speak persuasively, and work with others to create change.

Program tracks

  • Justice studies—Examine equity, justice, and the role of institutions in promoting fairness and accountability.
  • Public administration—Study management, budgeting, and leadership in government and nonprofit organizations.
  • Political science (general)—Explore American, comparative, and international politics.
  • Political science (global)—Build on political science foundations with an emphasis on global and international issues.
  • Political science (pre-law)—Prepare for law school through focused coursework in legal systems and political institutions.

Life as a public affairs student at WSU Vancouver

Public affairs students don’t just study public systems, they seek a deeper understanding to engage with them. You’ll be encouraged to apply what you learn through internships, research, and public-facing experiences that connect coursework to lived political and civic realities. Plus, you’ll be supported by a network of faulty who know you and peers who share your passion for learning.

Student Life

Internships that open doorsMajor options

Intern with local and state agencies intern with local and state agencies, nonprofit organizations, and advocacy groups. Participate in the Washington Legislative Internship to get direct experience in the policy-making process.

Policy conversations in action

Through the faculty-led events, you’ll engage with leaders, practitioners, and scholars working on current public issues.

Careers with a public affairs degree

A degree in public affairs prepares you for meaningful work in public service and leadership. Graduates pursue careers such as:

  • Policy analysts and legislative assistants
  • Program coodinators
  • City and local government professionals
  • Public managers and administrators

Many students also go on to graduate programs in public administration, political science, or law.

Career Action Center