B.S. in Public Policy

Undergraduate Programs Entry requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at OSU must have completed their secondary education or its equivalent with a minimum grade average of 83-86% or above.
   
• English Language Proficiency:  
  • IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.5.
  • TOEFL: A minimum score of 70 on the internet-based test (iBT).
  • PTE: A PTE score of 48.
  • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 100.
     
• SAT or ACT: SAT - 500 Verbal (or 560 evidence-based Reading/Writing) or ACT - 21 English/Reading is required.

Oregon State University (OSU) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad. 

1. International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) Scholarship: The ICSP scholarship is a competitive scholarship awarded to outstanding international students who demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to promoting cultural exchange. Recipients receive a tuition waiver of up to 15 credits per term and a monthly stipend.

2. Provost's Scholarship for Excellence: This scholarship is available to incoming undergraduate international students who have exceptional academic records and demonstrate leadership potential. The scholarship covers a portion of non-resident tuition fees and is renewable for up to four years.

3. International Achievement Scholarship: The International Achievement Scholarship is open to incoming undergraduate international students with a strong academic background. The scholarship provides partial tuition waivers ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 per year.

4. INTO OSU Scholarships: INTO OSU, the university's international pathway program, offers a range of scholarships to support international students transitioning to OSU. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and can provide substantial tuition reductions.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within Oregon State University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, field of study, or other criteria. Students are encouraged to explore the scholarship opportunities available within their respective colleges.

6. Global Diversity Scholarship: The Global Diversity Scholarship aims to increase access to education for underrepresented international students. The scholarship is available to undergraduate and graduate students and provides a partial tuition waiver.

7. Graduate Assistantships: OSU offers graduate assistantships to qualified international students pursuing a master's or doctoral degree. These assistantships provide financial support in the form of a stipend and often include a tuition waiver.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and award amounts may vary from year to year. 

Graduating with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Public Policy from Oregon State University (OSU) opens up a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors aimed at shaping public policy, advocating for change, and addressing societal challenges. The B.S. in Public Policy program at Oregon State University prepares graduates for diverse and impactful careers in public policy, government, advocacy, consulting, and non-profit sectors. With their analytical skills, policy expertise, and commitment to addressing societal challenges, graduates make valuable contributions to shaping public policies, advancing social justice, and improving the well-being of communities and populations.

1. Policy Analyst: Graduates may pursue careers as policy analysts, working for government agencies, think tanks, consulting firms, or advocacy organizations. They analyze policy issues, conduct research, and evaluate the impact of policies on society, providing evidence-based recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders to inform decision-making and improve policy outcomes.

2. Government Relations Specialist: Some graduates work as government relations specialists, representing organizations or businesses to government officials, legislators, and regulatory agencies. They advocate for policy positions, track legislative developments, and build relationships with key stakeholders to influence policy decisions and advance the interests of their clients or organizations.

3. Legislative Assistant: Graduates may work as legislative assistants for elected officials at local, state, or federal levels of government. They conduct research, draft legislation, analyze policy proposals, and provide support to lawmakers in developing and implementing policies that address constituents' needs and priorities, contributing to the legislative process and public policymaking.

4. Non-Profit and Advocacy Organizations: Many graduates find employment opportunities in non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, or grassroots organizations focused on social justice, environmental protection, public health, or human rights. They may work as policy advocates, community organizers, or program managers, mobilizing support for policy change, raising awareness of social issues, and empowering marginalized communities to advocate for their rights and interests.

5. Policy Consultant: Some graduates pursue careers as policy consultants, providing expertise and strategic advice to organizations, businesses, or government agencies on policy development, implementation, and evaluation. They may conduct policy analysis, facilitate stakeholder engagement, or design and assess policy interventions to address complex societal challenges and achieve desired outcomes.

6. Urban Planner: Graduates with a B.S. in Public Policy may work as urban planners, collaborating with local governments, developers, and community stakeholders to design and implement land use policies, transportation plans, and sustainable development strategies. They analyze demographic trends, assess community needs, and develop policies that promote equitable and inclusive urban environments.

7. Environmental Policy Analyst: Some graduates specialize in environmental policy, working for government agencies, environmental organizations, or consulting firms. They research environmental issues, analyze policy options, and advocate for policies that promote environmental conservation, sustainability, and resilience, addressing challenges such as climate change, pollution, and natural resource management.

8. Health Policy Specialist: Graduates may work in health policy roles, focusing on improving access to healthcare, addressing public health disparities, and promoting health equity. They may work for government agencies, healthcare organizations, or public health advocacy groups, analyzing health policies, advocating for healthcare reforms, and developing initiatives to improve population health outcomes and reduce health inequalities.