2022 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America

Explore the best colleges for public policy and social services. Read reviews and rankings based on research funding, faculty ratings, and more. This year's rankings have reduced the weight of ACT/SAT scores to reflect a general de-emphasis on test scores in the college admissions process. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

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Graduate Student: I am an ABSN student that started when everything was virtual due to COVID and I am only here for a year (keep this in mind). The campus is BEAUTIFUL and huge! The professors are really invested in your education. Parking is HORRIBLE if you do not time it right or try to get around without a parking pass. The parking lots are a good walk away from the buildings most of the time so add walking time to your commute if you are a grad student. Student Health is phenomenal. Cocoa Cinnamon is a great coffee shop that everyone should try at least once to get coffee (tea or hot chocolate) and churros. The city of Durham is beautiful so explore it if you get a chance...Read 1,147 Reviews
#1 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Duke University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
DURHAM, NC,
1147 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Graduate Student says I am an ABSN student that started when everything was virtual due to COVID and I am only here for a year (keep this in mind). The campus is BEAUTIFUL and huge! The professors are really invested in....
Read 1147 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 8%,
Net Price: $26,932,
SAT Range: 1470-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
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Freshman: The courses, faculty, resources, and community here are all wonderful. There is truly a culture throughout the university of caring about the students and doing everything possible to help them succeed. The academics are, of course, extremely challenging, but there are plenty of ways to get help and the academic faculty are always very receptive to students needing assistance. Most everyone has the drive to succeed without creating an overly competitive or cutthroat environment. Culture outside of academics - arts, music, clubs, sports - is vibrant as well...Read 446 Reviews
#2 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Princeton University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PRINCETON, NJ,
446 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says The courses, faculty, resources, and community here are all wonderful. There is truly a culture throughout the university of caring about the students and doing everything possible to help them....
Read 446 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $18,685,
SAT Range: 1450-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
Freshman: My favorite part of UChicago is definitely its academics -- students are constantly encouraged to debate, rethink, and most importantly, listen. I was able to take a graduate student course as a first-year, and was amazed by the level of respectful and intellectual discussion that was possible! Students and professors alike are motivated, caring, and inclusive, and there's a strong sense of community everywhere you go, from the UCPD officer on the street corner to the dining hall staff. There's truly something for everyone, from Student Action to University Theater to Circus Club to Greek life. Regardless of extracurricular interests, however, there's an undeniable bond in the love of learning and open-mindedness that ties everyone in UChicago together...Read 1,204 Reviews
#3 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
University of Chicago
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CHICAGO, IL,
1204 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says My favorite part of UChicago is definitely its academics -- students are constantly encouraged to debate, rethink, and most importantly, listen. I was able to take a graduate student course as a....
Read 1204 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 6%,
Net Price: $36,584,
SAT Range: 1500-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
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Senior: I am a current senior at Roanoke College and overall I've had a great experience even with the pandemic interrupting half of my college experience. The professors I've had are amazing and care about my overall health, well-being, and needs in the classroom. Any classes that I may have struggled with all my professors were open to office hours and helping me improve my grades to the best they could be. As a 4 year residential student I think the dorms on campus are average and could be improved. They are not the worst dorms I've seen but not the best, there definitely is room for improvement. As for the food options I think there is room for improvement on food. Since the pandemic I've experienced limited choices in food, prior to the pandemic Roanoke had many food options. With the renovation of one of our dining halls I have high hopes these options will return to campus. Student life on this campus is also very good for its small size. Overall, I have enjoyed my Roanoke experience...Read 736 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Roanoke College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SALEM, VA,
736 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I am a current senior at Roanoke College and overall I've had a great experience even with the pandemic interrupting half of my college experience. The professors I've had are amazing and care about....
Read 736 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 78%,
Net Price: $27,975,
SAT Range: 1040-1240,
Will You Get In?Compare
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Sophomore: For context- current sophomore who started at USC online, majoring in Communications but has taken classes from across disciplines-Academics: overall good but definitely some terrible professors who either have favoritism, are unclear with expectations, or bad w grading. But the majority of professors are really good-Environment: if you're intimidated by rich, judgmental people, this is not the place for you. A lot of the culture is exclusionary towards ppl who work or who don't partake in certain activities (ex: Greek life) But when you get through the superficial aspect you can meet some really awesome, interesting friends!...-facilities: very very nice- great gyms, dining halls, dormsOverall: a great school with a lot of resources, so be sure to look into your major specific resources bc they offer so much! Just be warned that it's not the easiest place to go to if you don't fit a certain mold...Read 3,837 Reviews
#4 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
University of Southern California
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LOS ANGELES, CA,
3837 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says For context- current sophomore who started at USC online, majoring in Communications but has taken classes from across disciplines-Academics: overall good but definitely some terrible professors who either have favoritism, are unclear with expectations, or bad w grading. But the majority of professors are really good-Environment: if you're intimidated by rich, judgmental people, this is not the place for you. A lot of the culture is exclusionary towards ppl who work or who don't partake in certain activities...-facilities: very very nice- great gyms, dining halls, dormsOverall: a great school with a lot of resources, so be sure to look into your major specific resources bc they offer so much! Just be warned that it's not the easiest place to go to if you don't fit....
Read 3837 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $39,759,
SAT Range: 1340-1530,
Will You Get In?Compare
Alum: Now, 60+ years after a Stanford BSME, I am astoundingly grateful for a rounded undergraduate engineering education that led to 1) a succession of rewarding employments, and through those, 2) development of cultural appreciation and of language capability in Malaysian/Indonesian - employment experiences in human relations and communication that made me a more effective and versatile engineer. So to Stanford, thanks for getting me off to a great start!...T. Savage, SeattleRead 1,222 Reviews
#5 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Stanford University
4 Year,
STANFORD, CA,
1222 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Now, 60+ years after a Stanford BSME, I am astoundingly grateful for a rounded undergraduate engineering education that led to 1) a succession of rewarding employments, and through those, 2)...T. Savage, Seattle.
Read 1222 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 5%,
Net Price: $20,023,
SAT Range: 1420-1570,
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Alum: Attending Columbia University was a fantastic experience for me. My professors were all very interesting. Some were a bit quirky, but that was ok. They always challenged me to be open to possibilities and to figure things out from all angles. The work load was definitely heavy, but I learned more there than anywhere else I have been since then. And the facilities were excellent. There's a telescope on campus and I'll never forget our class meeting at 9pm one night to view the planets and see what astronomers actually did. We saw rings of Saturn, Jupiters moons, storms on Jupiter, star clusters, and more. Even though it was only an elective class, I found it fascinating and the professor, who was visiting from England, was very engaging and enjoyed his work. All of my instructors were. They were all working and teaching, so it was the best of both worlds. Also, the research materials were endless. It didn't hurt that the school is in Manhattan, and in my favorite part!...Read 1,281 Reviews
#6 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Columbia University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW YORK, NY,
1281 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Attending Columbia University was a fantastic experience for me. My professors were all very interesting. Some were a bit quirky, but that was ok. They always challenged me to be open to....
Read 1281 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $22,126,
SAT Range: 1460-1570,
Will You Get In?Compare
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Freshman: Northwestern is definitely an academically rigorous school, but the amount of resources provided to its students makes success attainable. The Northwestern faculty goes above and beyond to ensure that their students have the support they need, not only to promote strong academics, but also all facets of health. Also, the student body at Northwestern is incredible! Everyone is extremely kind and inclusive. Thus, despite the rigor of the classes at NU--and the stress that such rigor entails--I have had such a positive experience that has made it all worth it!...Read 1,423 Reviews
#7 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Northwestern University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
EVANSTON, IL,
1423 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Northwestern is definitely an academically rigorous school, but the amount of resources provided to its students makes success attainable. The Northwestern faculty goes above and beyond to ensure....
Read 1423 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $28,344,
SAT Range: 1430-1550,
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Junior: Work hard, play hard! That’s life at Penn. Strengths - Great approachable Professors, almost any class or activity you can think of, wonderful diversity, beautiful campus. Lots of opportunities to study abroad. Greek life is active, but not necessary to have a rich social life. Tuition, room and board are expensive but there’s lots of aid available. Highly recommended, but very competitive admission rate ( around 8% ). Suggest applying Early Decision if Penn’s your first choice ( 18% acceptance rate )...Read 1,284 Reviews
#8 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
University of Pennsylvania
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PHILADELPHIA, PA,
1284 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Work hard, play hard! That’s life at Penn. Strengths - Great approachable Professors, almost any class or activity you can think of, wonderful diversity, beautiful campus. Lots of opportunities....
Read 1284 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 8%,
Net Price: $24,167,
SAT Range: 1460-1570,
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Senior: I love Brown. I transferred here, and quickly met some of the most amazing, passionate, and genuine people I could imagine. The student body is so friendly and hard-working. Still, the best part of Brown is the open curriculum—the academic freedom and autonomy I am given here has changed my relationship to learning and life in general. I have discovered so many interests I never know I had! The open curriculum, in general, is perfect for students who have lots of wide-ranging interests and want to pursue multiple fields, or know exactly what they want to specialize in. But it's also great for students who have no idea, and want time to explore and try new areas of study while they figure things out. I agree with other reviewers that the food and dorms aren't outstanding by any means. However, the academic environement, professors, and fellow students at Brown are more than worth it. I'm so sad to be graduating :(...Read 1,033 Reviews
#9 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Brown University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PROVIDENCE, RI,
1033 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I love Brown. I transferred here, and quickly met some of the most amazing, passionate, and genuine people I could imagine. The student body is so friendly and hard-working. Still, the best part of....
Read 1033 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $27,659,
SAT Range: 1440-1560,
Will You Get In?Compare
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Freshman: At first, I was a bit disappointed that I ended up at Rice University. I was aiming for the Ivy Leagues and ended up at a college that I hadn't even heard of before the university application process. However, even though I've only been here for a few weeks, I couldn't be happier. Rice is a super inclusive university, with only the best of the best as professors, and the people here are nicer than any other people I've ever met. Everyone in the student body is willing to get to know you and, as an introvert, I feel myself becoming more and more relaxed when hanging out and talking to other people. Of course, I couldn't mention Rice without mentioning how good their academics are, and as a STEM student the classes are fast-paced yet easy to understand. Rice also has an enormous campus that rivals the Ivies while only having a total enrollment of under 7000 students. This means that dorms are also massive, and the living conditions are sensational. I'm happy to be an Owl!...Read 1,079 Reviews
#10 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Rice University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
HOUSTON, TX,
1079 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says At first, I was a bit disappointed that I ended up at Rice University. I was aiming for the Ivy Leagues and ended up at a college that I hadn't even heard of before the university application....
Read 1079 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $19,215,
SAT Range: 1460-1570,
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Alum: I graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. I primarily chose to attend Vandy for its academic prowess, and it definitely lived up to that reputation. In retrospect, I loved the majority of my STEM classes, and I find that my education was well-rounded because of my required liberal arts classes. The campus is beautiful, the food is relatively good, and on-campus housing is average. Admittedly, I was excited to live off-campus for my last two years (but beware - living in Nashville is not cheap). Socially, I had a great time at Vandy, especially thanks to the liveliness of Nashville, but sadly not due to Vanderbilt sports - this is not their strong suit. I met lifelong friends at this school! Realistically, however, many students do come from wealthy backgrounds, which can be off-putting at times. Ultimately, while undeniably expensive, Vanderbilt is a great school that will certainly work to your advantage after graduation...Read 1,299 Reviews
#11 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Vanderbilt University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NASHVILLE, TN,
1299 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. I primarily chose to attend Vandy for its academic prowess, and it definitely lived up to that....
Read 1299 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 12%,
Net Price: $25,804,
SAT Range: 1470-1570,
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Sophomore: Currently reaching near the middle of my time here, and this school truly works you to the bone. The baseline of this place is that everyone is very smart. Some are decently smart and work hard enough to get in, others come in doing Olympiads from when they were 5 years old...The students are very diverse. Some come in "normal", others finally get to truly express the weird and unique that they've been suppressing their whole lives. The campus is extremely welcoming and you really get to be who you want to be; it's very beautiful. Each dorm has an extant history and culture; you can automatically learn about someone by what dorm they live in...The academics are exceedingly difficult by content and pace. The problem set difficulty are elevated beyond a typical school's, and they force you to collaborate with others. Everyone must collaborate. You're forced to learn time management skills...I was finally able to satisfy my love for learning here. Truly an amazing and unique school!Read 639 Reviews
#12 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
4 Year,
CAMBRIDGE, MA,
639 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Currently reaching near the middle of my time here, and this school truly works you to the bone. The baseline of this place is that everyone is very smart. Some are decently smart and work hard...The students are very diverse. Some come in "normal", others finally get to truly express the weird and unique that they've been suppressing their whole lives. The campus is extremely welcoming and...The academics are exceedingly difficult by content and pace. The problem set difficulty are elevated beyond a typical school's, and they force you to collaborate with others. Everyone must...I was finally able to satisfy my love for learning here. Truly an amazing and unique school!.
Read 639 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $19,998,
SAT Range: 1510-1580,
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Alum: Aside from all of the aspects Pomona promotes as the reasons in favor of attending, I have to say that the relationships I forged with faculty, staff, and my fellow majors (Public Policy Analysis) contributed in large part to my success in undergrad and beyond. The Career Development Office in particular helped me perfect my job-hunting skills, and tailor my resume to ensure I was always putting my best, most relevant self out there. The alumni network is robust, and folks are always willing to lend a helping hand when it comes to connecting current students and other alums to jobs or people who can lift them up. Thanks to the CDO, I was able to land a great internship that legitimized my thesis research to a point where I was able to create valid policy solutions to address the problems I was trying to solve, which is why I chose Pomona in the first place. So glad to have had the opportunities and experiences that I did! My life shifted for the better because of Pomona...Read 411 Reviews
#13 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Pomona College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLAREMONT, CA,
411 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Aside from all of the aspects Pomona promotes as the reasons in favor of attending, I have to say that the relationships I forged with faculty, staff, and my fellow majors (Public Policy Analysis)....
Read 411 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 9%,
Net Price: $30,392,
SAT Range: 1390-1540,
Will You Get In?Compare
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Senior: Work hard, play harder. Cornell is an excellent school academically speaking & one where you'll find friends for life. The opportunities are endless, and job placement is spectacular. All of my friends are either going to top firms or top PhD/MD programs...It's hard to transition to college, but Cornell is a pretty difficult transition (very cold, hard academically, exclusive Greek life scene). That said, once you make it work for you it's the best uni experience!...Read 1,979 Reviews
#14 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Cornell University
4 Year,
ITHACA, NY,
1979 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Work hard, play harder. Cornell is an excellent school academically speaking & one where you'll find friends for life. The opportunities are endless, and job placement is spectacular. All of my...It's hard to transition to college, but Cornell is a pretty difficult transition (very cold, hard academically, exclusive Greek life scene). That said, once you make it work for you it's the best uni....
Read 1979 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 11%,
Net Price: $27,522,
SAT Range: 1400-1540,
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Alum: I graduated from Barnard over 25 years ago. To this day, I am empowered and inspired by the education I received from Barnard and the friendships I made. The classes were excellent, my classmates were inspiring and diverse and I am continuously impressed with their accomplishments - Pulitzer Prize winners, Emmy winners, authors, rock stars, business leaders, entrepreneurs, professors, doctors, lawyers - it was really special. I loved being able to take advantage of the classes, dorms and dining halls of Columbia, and developed close friendships amongst the entire community. Going to school in NYC was AWESOME! For those who think of it as simply a women’s college, I would say say that is way too narrow. It inspires and emboldens women in a way that is unique, and anyway you are among guys all the time - in class, in dorms, on campus, in the dining halls, socializing…you are not at all isolated. I can’t recommend Barnard highly enough!...Read 452 Reviews
#15 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Barnard College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW YORK, NY,
452 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I graduated from Barnard over 25 years ago. To this day, I am empowered and inspired by the education I received from Barnard and the friendships I made. The classes were excellent, my classmates....
Read 452 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 14%,
Net Price: $30,572,
SAT Range: 1350-1520,
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Freshman: NYU provides many resources for those with a lower income. One of the main reasons I decided to go here is because of the aid and support given to people of color like myself. In addition, the education itself is very fulfilling and informative. I learn a lot from the courses instead of just trying to “pass” the class. However, this school is predominantly white so it’s difficult to find people from your culture or racial background. The good news is that there are a lot of clubs and organizations that cater to specific cultures and ethnicities so you’re still able to connect to those who are familiar to you. If you have the chance to go to NYU, definitely go!...Read 5,446 Reviews
#16 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
New York University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW YORK, NY,
5446 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says NYU provides many resources for those with a lower income. One of the main reasons I decided to go here is because of the aid and support given to people of color like myself. In addition, the....
Read 5446 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 21%,
Net Price: $45,417,
SAT Range: 1370-1540,
Will You Get In?Compare
Virtual Tour
Freshman: The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers many amazing things for college students. First, the campus is naturally beautiful with many events and organizations taking place the first few weeks within central campus and even more on the diag. This campus is not only beautiful but also offers many spots to sit with your friends and study. Whether that be swinging in a hammock under some of the trees or sitting over by Ingalls Mall. Furthermore, the professors care for their students and find time to listen to advice and questions often asked by students. This allows for students to have a voice in some of the things they learn, how the class is conducted and allows for them to better understand the material. The University also has a very diverse and amazing social life in which there is something for everyone. Student Government, feeding squirrels, and even intermural sports, you can even create your own club if there isn't one that fits you!...Read 4,411 Reviews
#17 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ANN ARBOR, MI,
4411 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers many amazing things for college students. First, the campus is naturally beautiful with many events and organizations taking place the first few weeks....
Read 4411 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 26%,
Net Price: $17,832,
SAT Range: 1340-1520,
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Sophomore: As a parent of a sophmore in Visual Arts and Writing programs, I feel so grateful she got in. First of all she got a full ride, they removed a massive strain off of our family and did it completely and thoroughly. She had met and spoken with several faculty members before applying (Early Decision) and visited the campus, and they were so helpful and supportive it really allowed us to make a confident Early Decision. My daughter is gifted, but shy shy shy, and her mother is Brazilian, so VERY attached and we worried about sending her away. It was tough, but the support of programs like Deneb Stars and the many other programs (including late night escorts for safety) allowed her to make the leap and find her feet. Once the pandemic hit, WashU was amongst the first half dozen schools to move online (they are now hybrid, my daughter is working from home). The faculty and admin prioritized their health first, while the coursework has remained rigorous. She is thriving. A+ response Washu!...Read 1,499 Reviews
#18 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Washington University in St. Louis
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SAINT LOUIS, MO,
1499 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says As a parent of a sophmore in Visual Arts and Writing programs, I feel so grateful she got in. First of all she got a full ride, they removed a massive strain off of our family and did it completely....
Read 1499 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 16%,
Net Price: $27,233,
SAT Range: 1480-1560,
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Sophomore: I like the coursework at CMU! It's both challenging and exciting. We also have a vibrant extracurricular scene, and student services like career counseling are useful. Although the scheduling system could be improved, my overall experience with CMU has been positive. I would recommend it, particularly for potential applicants interested in engineering, computer science, drama, or architecture...Read 1,420 Reviews
#19 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Carnegie Mellon University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PITTSBURGH, PA,
1420 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says I like the coursework at CMU! It's both challenging and exciting. We also have a vibrant extracurricular scene, and student services like career counseling are useful. Although the scheduling system....
Read 1420 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $36,983,
SAT Range: 1460-1560,
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Alum: I really enjoyed my experience at UVA. Not only did I make more lifelong friends, I branched out and took the first few steps towards becoming an adult. I got a job, and for the first time in the life, I had to balance the stress of a job and schoolwork. Talk about adulthood! Not only does UVA have amazing places for students to study, they also have an arousing nightlife if you just want to take the night off. The Corner was always my favorite place to hangout because it contained my favorite restaurants: Bodo's Bagels ( I normally got the sausage and egg on plain bagel), Roots (I normally got the El Jeffe), and The White Spot (their signature burger is de-lish)! If I could go bac to undergrad, I would not do anything different. I had so much fun at UVA, and I had awesome friends that I made memories with...Read 2,286 Reviews
#20 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
University of Virginia
4 Year,
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA,
2286 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I really enjoyed my experience at UVA. Not only did I make more lifelong friends, I branched out and took the first few steps towards becoming an adult. I got a job, and for the first time in the....
Read 2286 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 23%,
Net Price: $19,043,
SAT Range: 1320-1510,
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Senior: UNC Chapel-Hill is definitely challenging academically, but overall an excellent institution! Despite lots of challenges with the COVID-19 year (part of my sophomore spring and entire junior year), I was able to complete most of my major, and will finish school on-time. Met some excellent professors in the EXSS department who truly care about my learning and success as a student, and was afforded the opportunity to begin research in the MOTION Institute, specifically regarding ACL reconstruction as an undergraduate RA, even in my senior year, when many told me it would be 'too late' to start. UNC also is close to the Newman Center for Catholic students, which is very welcoming and hosts weekly Wednesday night dinners as part of a social get-together for like-minded undergraduates - set-up, cooking, and cleaning all done by students!...Read 2,495 Reviews
#21 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
4 Year,
CHAPEL HILL, NC,
2495 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says UNC Chapel-Hill is definitely challenging academically, but overall an excellent institution! Despite lots of challenges with the COVID-19 year (part of my sophomore spring and entire junior year), I....
Read 2495 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 25%,
Net Price: $10,038,
SAT Range: 1280-1490,
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Sophomore: In terms of academics, this school is great! I enjoy most of my classes and my professors are usually very good. In terms of every day life, the campus is quite nice. I like the outdoor spaces and the many places offered to study. The school also offers hundreds of clubs to choose from. The only negative aspect I have encountered in this school is that some of the facilities are quite old and lack the proper upkeep. Other than that, I really like this school!...Read 3,457 Reviews
#22 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Boston University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BOSTON, MA,
3457 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says In terms of academics, this school is great! I enjoy most of my classes and my professors are usually very good. In terms of every day life, the campus is quite nice. I like the outdoor spaces and....
Read 3457 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 20%,
Net Price: $29,154,
SAT Range: 1310-1500,
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Freshman: UC Berkeley has a variety of student experiences academic opportunities. In terms of common/popular majors, seeing from my first year, many students study Computer Science/EECS, Data Science, Psychology, or Pre-Haas (Business). ...However, one of the biggest disadvantages of the Berkeley/Bay Area area is the high cost of living. In addition, UC Berkeley only guarantees dorm housing for first-years, so figuring out arrangements for off-campus housing in the future is a burden many students have to face early into their college experience. But as long as you stay on top of your research, and keep in mind your budget, that can be overcome. ...Overall, the key to success at UC Berkeley is awareness. Be grounded in your goals and taking the initiative to reach them!Read 4,194 Reviews
#23 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
University of California - Berkeley
4 Year,
BERKELEY, CA,
4194 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says UC Berkeley has a variety of student experiences academic opportunities. In terms of common/popular majors, seeing from my first year, many students study Computer Science/EECS, Data Science,...However, one of the biggest disadvantages of the Berkeley/Bay Area area is the high cost of living. In addition, UC Berkeley only guarantees dorm housing for first-years, so figuring out arrangements...Overall, the key to success at UC Berkeley is awareness. Be grounded in your goals and taking the initiative to reach them!.
Read 4194 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 17%,
Net Price: $19,329,
SAT Range: 1310-1530,
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Sophomore: Hamilton College has been nothing short of life-changing. I've enjoyed every second of my time here and, as someone who has always sought a sense of belonging, truly feel like this is MY place. There is a wide variety of personalities here, so don't be distraught by the "small-school" label. Unlike other NESCACs, you have diversity of opinion on a wide variety of issues which is important for me (although it may not be for you). Everyone here has their "thing," which can vary by sport, interest, or club. Finding on-campus work is a breeze, and it's easy to get involved. The academic rigor here is exceptionally intense. Unlike other colleges (you know who you are), professors are not afraid to hand out C's at your (and the College's) expense. In all honesty, the best route for you, and your GPA, is "sticking to your strengths" rather than trying your hand at something new. Overall, I LOVE it here. Couldn't recommend it more...Read 470 Reviews
#24 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Hamilton College
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CLINTON, NY,
470 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Hamilton College has been nothing short of life-changing. I've enjoyed every second of my time here and, as someone who has always sought a sense of belonging, truly feel like this is MY place. There....
Read 470 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 18%,
Net Price: $23,936,
SAT Range: 1380-1510,
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#25 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America.
Metropolitan College of New York
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW YORK, NY,
148 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says This is a very close nit and tight community of students and faculty. You may need to make a little noise to stand out but it is a great school!.
Read 148 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 40%,
Net Price: $24,083,
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Alum: I was dual enrolled at Bluefield College online for three years. I was able to graduate with my Associate's Degree at the age of 17. The value of the classes was superb, and for the most part, I liked all my classes and professors. The faculty was always quick to answer questions and rectify problems, and the professors were gracious, understanding, and willing to help in any way they could. I enjoyed my time at Bluefield Online and would certainly recommend it to others...Read 203 Reviews
Sponsored Result, Bluefield University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BLUEFIELD, VA,
203 Niche users give it an average review of 3.4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I was dual enrolled at Bluefield College online for three years. I was able to graduate with my Associate's Degree at the age of 17. The value of the classes was superb, and for the most part, I....
Read 203 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: C minus,
Acceptance Rate: 76%,
Net Price: $22,038,
SAT Range: 900-1070,
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Sponsored Result, South University - Virginia Beach
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA,
112 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I attended SU Virginia Beach for my graduate degree. The Admissions team was professional and supportive. The faculty and support staff were always available to assist me. Graduation was great!.
Read 112 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 100%,
Net Price: $24,200,
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About This List

Where Niche Grades come from and how Niche calculates rankings.

Quick References

Rank	School Name	Location
1	Duke University	Durham, NC
2	Princeton University	Princeton, NJ
3	University of Chicago	Chicago, IL
4	University of Southern California	Los Angeles, CA
5	Stanford University	Stanford, CA
6	Columbia University	New York, NY
7	Northwestern University	Evanston, IL
8	University of Pennsylvania	Philadelphia, PA
9	Brown University	Providence, RI
10	Rice University	Houston, TX
11	Vanderbilt University	Nashville, TN
12	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	Cambridge, MA
13	Pomona College	Claremont, CA
14	Cornell University	Ithaca, NY
15	Barnard College	New York, NY
16	New York University	New York, NY
17	University of Michigan - Ann Arbor	Ann Arbor, MI
18	Washington University in St. Louis	Saint Louis, MO
19	Carnegie Mellon University	Pittsburgh, PA
20	University of Virginia	Charlottesville, VA
21	University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill	Chapel Hill, NC
22	Boston University	Boston, MA
23	University of California - Berkeley	Berkeley, CA
24	Hamilton College	Clinton, NY
25	Metropolitan College of New York	New York, NY

2022 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America

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Duke University

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University of Chicago

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Roanoke College

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University of Southern California

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Stanford University

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Columbia University

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Northwestern University

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University of Pennsylvania

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Brown University

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Rice University

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Vanderbilt University

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology

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Pomona College

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Cornell University

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Barnard College

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New York University

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University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

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Washington University in St. Louis

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Carnegie Mellon University

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University of Virginia

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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Boston University

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University of California - Berkeley

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Hamilton College

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Metropolitan College of New York

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Bluefield University

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South University - Virginia Beach

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