Public Policy and Governance

Because now, more than ever, the world needs leaders.

As a StFX Public Policy and Governance student, you will study the world of public affairs and leadership. This new program involves introducing students to a broad field that integrates many different disciplines to answer the key questions: how do we solve the common problems we have as a society, and how do we organize ourselves to provide those solutions? This involves analysis of government and other public institutions, their processes for tacking policy problems, and how to analytically approach the design, implementation and assessment of public policy.

 

WHY STUDY PUBLIC POLICY AND GOVERNANCE AT STFX?

This is a new program introduced in 2017, drawing from the expertise of several departments including political science, economics, philosophy, sociology and history. StFX has a long history of engagement in the public affairs of our community, and in inspiring students to grow into leadership positions. Our university is a dynamic scholarly environment where professors believe that research and teaching flourish together. It is a place where you feel comfortable debating current issues and solving problems in the classroom and beyond it, broadening your understanding of the world. Here you can have close contact with your professors and fellow students in a positive, accessible setting for learning.

As a Public Policy and Governance Student, you’ll study within beautiful Mulroney Hall, a stunning, new place of teaching and learning excellence located in the heart of the StFX campus. Opened in 2019, Mulroney Hall features state-of-the-art classrooms, the latest technologies, and lots of engaging, inviting spaces to do homework or catch up with friends. It’s a perfect venue to learn, be challenged, and achieve new heights!

OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN THE BRIAN MULRONEY INSTITUTE OF GOVERNMENT

StFX is also home to the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government, Canada’s only institute dedicated to the study of public policy and governance at the undergraduate level. Named for Canada’s 18th prime minister (and StFX alumnus) the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, the institute brings together some of Canada’s top scholars and thinkers, and is home to research chairs who specialize in topics like Canada-US relations, arctic policy, and marine security.

As a Public Policy and Governance student, you’ll have opportunities for hands-on learning and research within the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government. You won’t just discuss issues, but actually engage with them. In some case, you’ll even have the opportunity to put what you’ve learned to work on real-life projects.

 

Rewarding careers in Public Policy and Governance

Public Policy and Governance students can pursue careers in government at all levels including international agencies, law, journalism, non-governmental organizations, teaching, policy research, and political parties.

Flexible degree choices

At StFX, you can pursue a major, joint major and honours with subsidiary degree in Public Policy and Governance. The degree can be combined with a wide variety of arts disciplines or business administration. A certificate of French language proficiency makes a powerful combination.

In year one, Public Policy and Governance 101 explores key concepts, theories and methods. It introduces students to the big ideas about what policy and governance are for, provides a foundational knowledge of governing institutions, the policy process and the challenges of leadership. And it gets students started on the possibilities of policy analysis. Students should also take Economics 101 and 102, and Political Science 101 or 102.