Seattle University United States

Public Affairs, BA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Public Affairs, BA at Seattle University is designed for students passionate about addressing complex social and public problems through integrated, practical approaches. You will build a strong foundation in leadership, economics, public policy, management, and finance, preparing you to drive meaningful social change. This undergraduate degree is ideal for those interested in public policy, community planning, civic engagement, and advocacy, aiming for careers in local, state, or federal government, or the nonprofit sector. You will explore diverse perspectives and develop critical problem-solving skills.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Arts degree is studied over four years, offering a flexible curriculum that allows you to concentrate in specific areas of interest. Your learning experience will be enriched through practical internship opportunities where you will analyze and address real-world social problems, alongside experiential learning and potential education abroad. You will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of public affairs and the practical skills needed to pursue a career dedicated to promoting a just and humane world, equipped for roles in public service and the nonprofit sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Affairs program provides a comprehensive education in public service and policy. Students will engage with core curriculum requirements, including academic writing, quantitative reasoning, and various inquiry seminars across humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The program also fulfills College of Arts and Sciences requirements with courses in historical studies, and delves into major requirements covering power, participation, social change, economics, community development, organizational behavior, financial management, research design, and policy analysis, culminating in a senior synthesis project.

1 I. Core Curriculum Requirements

Academic Writing Seminar Compulsory
Quantitative Reasoning Compulsory
Creative Expression and Interpretation Compulsory
Inquiry Seminar in the Humanities Compulsory
Inquiry Seminar in the Social Sciences Compulsory
Inquiry Seminar in the Natural Sciences Compulsory

2 II. College of Arts and Sciences Requirements

Constructing Past and Present I Compulsory
Constructing Past and Present II Compulsory
US in the World Compulsory

3 III. Major Requirements

Power, Participation, and Social Change Compulsory
Principles of Economics - Micro Compulsory
Principles of Economics - Macro Compulsory
Community Development Compulsory
Understanding Organizations Compulsory
Financial Management and Control Compulsory
Research Design and Statistics Compulsory
Policy Analysis Compulsory
Internship Elective
Senior Synthesis Compulsory
Urban Public Policy Elective
Urban Transportation Systems Elective
The Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Compulsory
Diversity and Social Justice in Workplace Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 57,825.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 57,825.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 57,825.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 57,825.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 231,300.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,039.00 - USD 1,919.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Seattle Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Commercial & Industrial ConstructionConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsCustoms, Trade & ComplianceCybersecurityFamily & Civil LawFleet Management & OperationsLegal Aid & Public Interest LawNetworking & Internet ServicesTransport Engineering & InfrastructureUrban Mobility & Smart Transport

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

City of Seattle

Why Study Public Affairs, BA at Seattle University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at Seattle University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Public Affairs, BA at Seattle University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks, without requiring separate work permits for on-campus jobs.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Career paths include roles such as policy analyst, program coordinator, public affairs manager, community organizer, and advocacy specialist.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Public Affairs program focuses on public policy and community planning while preparing you for roles in government and nonprofit sectors. You'll engage in practical internships and diverse coursework to address societal issues.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Public Affairs BA program has three intake months: January, March, and September. You can apply during any of these periods.
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