
Public Policy
If you want to change the world, change the laws.
With a minor in public policy, students learn how to effect real, tangible change.
Lake Forest College offers a minor in public policy so students who dream of making the world a better place can learn how to bring about change. This interdisciplinary program allows students to choose a path of study that aligns with their personal aspirations. With a minor in public policy, students learn how to evaluate, assess, and analyze policy issues.
The minor in public policy is founded on the belief that a well-educated citizenry is critical for democracy to thrive. The curriculum and programming are designed to help Lake Forest College students understand the importance of sound public policy in all aspects of society. We teach students how to approach problems from a variety of perspectives, to understand the circumstances and objectives of all constituency groups, to navigate government channels to bring about change, and to develop substantive solutions.
In addition to the core curricular requirements for the minor, the Public Policy Studies Program also hosts an annual Public Policy Analysis Challenge. The Challenge encourages students to enhance public policy in a specific area. The theme for the Challenge's inaugural year was Privacy and the Internet, while the theme for the 2023-2024 academic year is Violence in America. Each year, the Public Policy Studies Program invites industry experts to campus to share their insights with students and provide unique opportunities for career advancement. All students are encouraged to attend the on-campus presentations and enter the Challenge.
Why public policy?
By studying public policy, students are well-prepared to identify and approach problems in their communities. With knowledge and understanding of the public policy process, students can go on to effect change at local, state, and federal levels.
Analysis is at the core of public policy. By analyzing a problem from all perspectives, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and nuances of creating sound and sustainable public policy. Our students are trained to use evidence-based practices in order to form policy proposals that offer effective, comprehensive, and sustainable solutions.


News

November 22, 2023
Papadovasilaki supervises students' participation in Fed Challenge

November 21, 2023
Batz-Barbarich looks at gender inequality in research paper, podcast

November 20, 2023
Felkey, Papadovasilaki publish study on ‘Gender Inequality in Finance’
Related programs
Contact us
Robert Lemke
Morten Professor of Public Policy
Department of Economics
Brown Hall 418
847-735-5143
lemke@lakeforest.edu