Policy Studies

Are you a budding wonk who loves to dig into the details of solving problems? Do you seek social justice? In policy studies, we aim to develop thoughtful, active, and intellectually engaged citizens who will contribute responsibly to the common good.

Policy analysis demands dedication to truth, evidence, critical thought, and focus on realistic prospects for change, combined with the ability to clearly articulate ideas across a range of disciplines. A policy component to a Grinnell liberal arts education, with directed research, will allow you to confidently pursue graduate studies or to apply forward-thinking policy solutions—in either a formal policy career or as an active participant—in myriad settings, such as neighborhood, city, region or the private sector, anywhere in the world. There is no better place to prepare for active policy engagement than our collegiate environment with its deep commitment to critical thinking, activism, advocacy, and cultural awareness.

Social Responsibility

Explore issues that matter and how you might make a difference.

Following Grinnell’s tradition of concern for social justice, many students participate in various forms of social and political activism. In the policy studies concentration, you’ll explore what types of activism, proposals, or programs might actually influence society, and how success in this area relates to politics and economics.
Interdisciplinary Study

Take a view from all vantage points.

You’ll explore the details of solving problems in depth, using a systematic and interdisciplinary approach as you examine and think about a host of issues, ranging from race and gender relations to climate change and the prospects for social justice. Exploring these issues from multiple vantage points will help you develop into a thoughtful, active, and intellectually engaged citizen prepared to contribute responsibly to the common good.
Career Preparation

Inspire change wherever you are.

Adding a policy component to your Grinnell liberal arts education will allow you to confidently pursue graduate studies or to apply forward-thinking policy solutions in either a formal policy career or as an active participant in myriad settings. You’ll graduate prepared for a career in the public or private sectors that inspires change in your neighborhood, city, region, or anywhere in the world.