From the Director

Welcome to Public Policy Studies (PPS)!

PPS is an interdisciplinary major that teaches students the skills, interdisciplinary concepts, and best practices for entering a career in a rapidly evolving world. The United States – and nations across the globe – face grand challenges, such as economic instability, climate-related disasters, international conflict, and other issues that may threaten our health, wellbeing, and security. We hope PPS students are equipped with the skills, leadership, and courage to make effective public policy impacts upon graduation.

What really sets Vanderbilt public policy studies apart is our commitment to PPS as part of a liberal arts education.  This is illustrated by our innovative curriculum, which draws on perspectives from political science, economics, sociology, statistics, law, history, and philosophy.  This liberal arts commitment within PPS is matched with novel and relevant practical applications that are made possible through Vanderbilt’s location in central Nashville – a vibrant urban setting that is also the home to the state’s capitol.  This puts PPS-focused internships, research opportunities, and immersion projects at your fingertips.

Vanderbilt PPS alumni can be found in every top graduate program in the country in law, public policy, public affairs, and government.  You will also find them in every corner of the globe in the Foreign Service, the Peace Corps, and Teach for America.  And you can find them in the private sector navigating the regulatory landscape or starting new policy ventures.  What unites them is a passion for solving problems for the greater good and a broad foundation of critical thinking, writing, and presentation skills.  Their contributions are as significant as their paths are diverse.

Thank you for taking the time to visit us.  While you’re here, I invite you to explore more about the PPS curriculum, our outstanding faculty, and the numerous opportunities for deep learning and engagement with public policy studies at Vanderbilt.

Sincerely, 

Gilbert Gonzales, PhD, MHA

Director, Public Policy Studies