Public Affairs
Major in the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs
The Bachelor of Public Affairs educates students about how to advocate for communities, how to formulate policies, how to implement programs, and how to analyze and evaluate whether they work. Students also receive training in professional communication, critical thinking skills, and applied data analysis. The focus throughout the major is on collaborative learning, real-world application, and professional skills for career readiness. This equips our students for meaningful jobs in the fields of healthcare, education, national security, energy and the environment, or any other pressing public policy domain of their choice.
Freshman and External Transfer Admission
ShowThe Public Affairs major is currently only accepting first-year applications for Fall 2025. At this time, it is not accepting internal or external transfers.
Internal Transfer Requirements
ShowThe Public Affairs major is currently only accepting first-year applications for Fall 2025. At this time, it is not accepting internal or external transfers.
Personality
ShowStudents at the LBJ School are committed to public service: pursuing activities that aim to improve the common good, rather than their own material or other benefit. They are driven by values and show a strong moral fiber. They exhibit strong analytical thinking skills and are effective oral and written communicators. They are comfortable with, and adept at, working in groups and teams, both in and out of leadership roles. They also understand, empathize with, and can engage diverse audiences. LBJ students are actively involved in their communities, via volunteer activities, advocacy projects, and other extracurricular organizations. The students’ interests vary by policy area (for example health care, education, national security, environment) but they share a desire to become active professionals in their chosen fields upon graduation.
Skills
Show- Statistics and quantitative data analysis;
- Strategic thinking and qualitative analysis;
- Professional preparation for entering the job market;
- Policy communication skills, both oral and written;
- Leadership and effective teamwork;
- Knowledge of the policy-making process and how to effectively engage in it.