Public Policy Research in Political Science

Public Policy in Political Science

Public policy, a vital subdiscipline within political science, concerns the processes and outcomes by which governments make decisions and implement actions to address societal challenges and improve the well-being of their citizens. This topic encompasses a wide range of issues, from health and education to economics and environmental protection.

Undergraduate Research Experiences

At institutions like the University of California, Riverside, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, students gain valuable insights into public policy research through undergraduate research assistantships (URAs). These experiences not only develop students' skills but also help them explore potential career paths in academia and policy analysis.

Public Policy Research Paths

Two primary paths to engage in public policy research are:

1. Participate in ongoing research: Students can join ongoing faculty projects to acquire hands-on experience in supporting research activities. For example, they might assist in data collection, analysis, or writing.

2. Begin an independent research project: Students can undertake their own projects on topics of interest, with the guidance of a faculty member. This approach helps students develop a deeper understanding of the research process and fosters their intellectual curiosity.

Research Assistantships and Public Policy Research

Undergraduate research assistants (RAs) often gain not only practical skills but also the opportunity to cultivate essential professional skills such as problem-solving, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and collaboration. RAs may work on projects that analyze public opinion, investigate political elite behavior, or examine the effectiveness of policy interventions.

Challenges and Benefits of Public Policy Research

Challenges for RAs might include time management, navigating bureaucratic systems, and self-doubt. However, the benefits of research assistantships, such as inclusion and independence, often outweigh these challenges.

Public Policy Research at a Glance

Public policy research is a dynamic field that offers students and RAs the opportunity to explore various societal challenges and gain valuable skills. As research assistants, students can develop a deeper understanding of the research process, learn from experienced faculty, and build connections that will benefit their future careers.

With an increased emphasis on undergraduate research experiences, public policy research is set to grow as more students explore and engage in this vital subdiscipline.