Science and technology are the roots, not only of our understanding of the natural world and its relationship to human welfare, but also of the constraints on what can be accomplished with the scarce resources comprising nature. Virtually all public policies are grounded in the realities of the natural world and proceed on the basis of constantly changing assumptions about or understandings of nature. An understanding of science and technology is thus essential to the formation of virtually any sound public policy.
In addition to the role of science and technology in policymaking on issues such as environmental imbalances, energy sources, human health, and national defense, this concentration considers U.S. policies toward science and technology itself, U.S. policy-making institutions, and the roles that scientists, engineers, and physicians play in the policy process.
Gateway courses and electives will be selected from the listing below, as appropriate for the goals of individual students.
Students proposing to undertake the Science and Technology Concentration must have a program of study approved by a member of the Science and Technology faculty prior to applying for admission.
Students completing this concentration have employment opportunities with local, state, federal, and international organizations concerned with science and technology policy and regulatory agencies, legislative bodies and firms dealing with such agencies, including consultancies. Graduate students in science and engineering fields may find several sources of tuition (and in some cases stipend) support while taking classes in public policy, and should review the funding opportunities page for more details.
Note that the courses below are not an exhaustive list; students may select other courses for their concentration with the approval of their faculty advisor.