The minor in public policy examines the policymaking process at all levels of government and prepares students for policy analysis using analytical tools like statistics and program evaluation. Electives explore substantive policy arenas including environmental protection and civil rights law.
Calendar
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Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar
Tuition & Aid
UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.
Value of a UIS Degree
UIS is No. 5 for students graduating with the least amount of debt, Midwest Region (2021).
Top 25 best value school, Midwest Region, and the only public university in Illinois on the list (2022, 2023, 2024).
98% of students receive aid
The average graduate from UIS will see an increase in earnings of $31,700 - $69,000 each year compared to someone with a high school diploma working in Illinois.
Admissions
Applying to UIS is simple
We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.
Review admission requirements
No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.
International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.
Complete your application
An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.
Send your official transcripts
Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.
Submit required statements/writing sample
If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on your application status page.
Pay your application fee
You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.
Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;
International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.
Voted No. 1 public regional university in Illinois
2020 - 2024
Courses & Catalog Information
At the University of Illinois Springfield, you'll find a wide range of courses tailored to your interests and career goals. Explore your program details and get all the essential information you need to plan your future.
Career Outlook & Potential Earnings
Graduates of this program may find opportunities in the following careers. Data sourced from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Political Scientists
Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governme
Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. May conduct public opinion surveys, analyze election results, or analyze public documents.
Median Annual Wage
$142,080
Wage Range
$83,350 – $195,190
Projected Growth
Below Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Doctoral degree, Master’s degree, Post-doctoral training
Chief Executives
Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan,
Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.
Median Annual Wage
$213,990
Wage Range
$75,700 – $507,730
Projected Growth
Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Master’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree
Public Relations Specialists
Bright OutlookPromote or create an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media. May specialize in using social media.
Median Annual Wage
$74,750
Wage Range
$44,110 – $135,150
Projected Growth
Bright
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree
Public Relations Managers
Bright OutlookPlan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client.
Median Annual Wage
$146,910
Wage Range
$82,410 – $284,990
Projected Growth
Bright
Climate Change Policy Analysts
Research and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches.
Median Annual Wage
$82,220
Wage Range
$52,520 – $140,010
Projected Growth
Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Master’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Doctoral degree
Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks
Process new insurance policies, modifications to existing policies, and claims forms. Obtain information from policyholders to verify the accuracy and completeness of information on claims forms, appl
Process new insurance policies, modifications to existing policies, and claims forms. Obtain information from policyholders to verify the accuracy and completeness of information on claims forms, applications and related documents, and company records. Update existing policies and company records to reflect changes requested by policyholders and insurance company representatives.
Median Annual Wage
$49,230
Wage Range
$37,560 – $73,590
Projected Growth
Below Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
High school diploma or equivalent, Associate’s degree, Some college, no degree
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