Discover our 100% online Public Policy Degree

What is Public Policy?

Public policy is an interdisciplinary field that connects subject-area knowledge with the laws, policies, and institutions that shape decision-making. It offers a broad understanding of societal issues and insight into how agencies and governments operate. UMF’s program links academic disciplines across campus and includes select online courses from other University of Maine System campuses.

Who is the Public Policy designed for?

This program is ideal for individuals working in or with local government entities across Maine who are looking to enhance their knowledge of policymaking and advance their careers. It also prepares students for a broad range of careers in public service, business, communications, government, and more.

Personalized Focus

You’ll study with expert faculty in core courses such as public policy, policy analysis, and statistical methods. As you progress, you’ll tailor your learning to focus on policy areas that interest you — including health care, education, gender and development, human rights, globalization, climate change, and environmental policy.

The Dates YourPace Students need to know

There are six opportunities throughout the year to begin our YourPace online program. Find the start date below that works best for you and apply before the application deadline. Please note, application and document deadlines are the same. We must receive all documents including official transcripts by the document deadline to be considered. Transcripts can often take 10 or more business days from the request date to be received, please plan accordingly.