2023 Best Colleges for Public Policy in America

• Ann Arbor, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  4,555 reviews

Junior: An amazing school filled with wonderful people (students, faculty, residents). So many opportunities for students to explore different parts of their education and passion. Great location with a downtown that is always busy with different restaurants, shops, bars, studios, and even the cutest weekend farmers market. At this school you will never be bored- there are always people who want to play sports, go out, go to the gym, study together, etc. I have never been happier. It is such a perfect, fun, exciting, fulfilling school to go to. Not a single bad thing to say (besides maybe that the winters are not the most fun but everything else totally makes up for that). If you love Michigan, you really LOVE Michigan! Wolverine forever. Go blue!... Read 4,555 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $19,205

• SAT range 1340-1520

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  2,353 reviews

Sophomore: At first I was weary of going here because of me being a minority but it is honestly very inclusive and I have never once felt discriminated or looked down upon because of my race. I love all the clubs and resources they offer to all different types of students. Just this year my friend was easily able to help the start up of a sustainability fraternity on grounds and I feel like those are the types of opportunities at UVA that make it wonderful. If I could see one thing change about the University I would say they could improve the advising system for students. I think my advisor has no information on what I want to do when I graduate or how I get there. Maybe have separate people for advising and not just give random professors that job. Still I couldn't see myself at any other university.... Read 2,353 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $20,401

• SAT range 1380-1500

• Berkeley, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  4,350 reviews

Sophomore: As a student at UC Berkeley, I have had an incredible experience overall. The university has a strong academic reputation and offers a wide range of courses and majors to choose from. The professors are knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, and they often encourage critical thinking and active participation in class. One of the things I like most about UC Berkeley is the vibrant campus community. There are numerous student organizations, clubs, and extracurricular activities available, allowing students to pursue their interests and connect with like-minded peers. The diversity of the student body enriches the overall experience, as I have had the opportunity to interact with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures.... Read 4,350 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $17,652

• SAT range 1310-1530

• Chapel Hill, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  2,583 reviews

Senior: My experience has been nothing short of amazing! My freshman year was quite interesting, and a little difficult. I mean, we were in the midst of a global pandemic. My freshman year I didn't like in a dorm, had all online classes, I think I went to main campus a couple times at most. However, time went on when it became safe to return to campus and have in-person classes and club meetings. Sophomore year I met one of my best friends in a pre-law professional fraternity, things were going well and I was meeting so many different people of all different types of backgrounds. I love the people at my school and in the town of Chapel Hill, and my professors truly care about their work and educating others. There aren't many things I would change. I think when it comes to different majors, I would like to see more diversity in identity.... Read 2,583 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $11,508

• SAT range 1140-1380

• Gainesville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  7,910 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Florida is a great school. There are so many opportunities. There is truly a place for everyone. There are hundreds of clubs, great study abroad opportunities, and I have had so many great teachers in just my freshman year. I do not regret my decision to go to UF. Go gators!... Read 7,910 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $9,809

• SAT range 1300-1470

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  6,580 reviews

Junior: The University of Texas at Austin provides a multitude of opportunities to help students succeed. UT offers some of the most incredible research opportunities, internships, study abroad programs, and organizations of any Texas school. There are programs gauged to any possible interest a student may have, whether for business or pleasure. UT allows students to gain experience in their fields before applying to their dream jobs, thus strengthening their applications and generating an interest in becoming the best one can be in their field. However, the +/- GPA scale at UT can be hard to overcome. Most courses require a 93 or above to award a 4.0 to the student, with 90-92.99 being considered an "A-" (3.67) and 87-89 being B+(3.33). This scale continues in the same pattern down to an F, but there is no A+ to offset an A-. However, there are plenty of opportunities to succeed in tutoring centers, office hours, discussion sections, and study groups.... Read 6,580 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $16,589

• SAT range 1230-1500

• Madison, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  3,373 reviews

Junior: University of Wisconsin - Madison is a big school with over 40,000 students, but the campus provides a lot a ways for students to find their niche. In particular, the political science and gender and women's studies programs - as I am sure with others - provide ample opportunities for students to get involved in research, internships, and professional development outside of the classroom. The vast majority of professors I have encountered are genuinely invested ins student success, especially once you get o higher level small discussion courses. While a large school also means large 100 and 200 level course lecture halls most professors in the social sciences are open to meet regularly with students. The university also has a longstanding history of student activism work, that dates back to the Vietnam War, this student activism have paved the way for a wealth of student resources on campus, and an active and engaged student body.... Read 3,373 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $13,484

• SAT range 1320-1500

• Athens, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  5,660 reviews

Freshman: The University of Georgia offers a vibrant college experience with ample social opportunities, diverse career prospects, and unwavering student support. Through a wide range of clubs, organizations, and events, students can easily make friends and build lasting connections. The institution's emphasis on career development includes career fairs, networking events, and internship services, equipping students with the necessary skills for success. The innovative double dawgs program allows students to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree in just five years, saving time and money. Faculty, staff, and administrators prioritize student support, providing mentorship, counseling services, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The University of Georgia truly fosters an environment that promotes personal growth and prepares students for a bright future.... Read 5,660 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 40%

• Net price $16,902

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Williamsburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,567 reviews

Sophomore: I sincerely enjoyed the experience, most teachers were incredibly understanding as long as you made sure to communicate. The social scene was a little small but you always find your group.... Read 1,567 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $18,399

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Seattle, WA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  4,556 reviews

Freshman: My overall experience at the University of Washington was highly rewarding. I appreciated the personalized learning environment created by smaller class sizes, allowing for more interaction with professors and fostering strong connections with peers. The campus was vibrant and inclusive, and the emphasis on research opportunities enhanced my education. While the cost of education and crowded courses could be areas for improvement, I would still highly recommend UW for its academic excellence and enriching experience.... Read 4,556 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $8,701

• SAT range 1200-1470

• Atlanta, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  2,144 reviews

Freshman: I really like the culture here: we emphasize both working hard and playing hard. Now, even for an introvert like myself, this is a great place to meet people, but also to hunker down and work. I really feel like my work matters here. Every assignment serves a purpose. I will say for a tech school, our digital infrastructure is laughable. Sure, our research is protected and secure, but not a day goes by that something does not crash. Not a huge problem, but very frustrating. BUT! Being a liberal arts major at Georgia Tech awards you countless advantages. Programs are small and deliberate, with so many hands-on, technical aspects to each class. Definitely the place to be for the modern liberal arts student!... Read 2,144 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 16%

• Net price $17,360

• SAT range 1310-1500

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  4,151 reviews

Senior: UCI is a large campus full of diverse people and many experiences. The teachers, more often than not, are adequate at explaining difficult concepts. The campus can be very lively for those who live on-campus or become involved in campus life, but on the other hand it can be very isolating for commuters and people who do not decide to join clubs/greek life. In my experience, the counselors were a lot more helpful and kind than I imagined but it depends highly on your major. Overall, great school but would recommend being involved and not being afraid to reach out to others, be it professor, counselor, or other classmates.... Read 4,151 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $11,633

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Tallahassee, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  7,494 reviews

Alum: I attended Florida State University from 2019-2022, completing my degree in three years. I found that this was an amazing school with many opportunities and organizations which I participated in. My freshman year, I joined a sorority on campus and lived in the house for two years too! This was a great way to get involved and do some community service as well as meeting many new friends. I also learned a lot of leadership skills from being in my sorority. I also studied abroad with FSU International Programs. I went to Florence, Italy and it was truly an unforgettable experience. It was an excellent way to see what I had learned minoring in art history in action and in-person finally after so many years! Speaking of in-person, I was able to have many in-person classes but many of my classes were also online. As I attended FSU during the pandemic, I experienced the emergency move out of dorms and the rush to online classes in the spring of 2020. Classes were still flex when I graduated.... Read 7,494 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $12,684

• SAT range 1180-1340

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  5,724 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, my first year was very successful. I met amazing people, joined exciting clubs, and was excited about some of my classes. Even though the atmosphere is big and sometimes overwhelming; I quickly found it comfortable when I found my niche of people and activities. I would like to see actions following Ohio State's diversity claim. I remember there was white supremacist incident were inappropriate language was painted somewhere and Ohio State emailed everyone saying how wrong this was. In addition to how diverse and caring Ohio State is, but I didn't see the actions following up on that. There is cultural events, but I feel either sending out information or holding events related to current racism would be beneficial. I believe feeling comfortable and seen by your school is important academically and socially.... Read 5,724 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $19,474

• SAT range 1250-1440

• Tallahassee, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  2,666 reviews

Senior: My experiences with Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University were very enlightening to say the least. Of course it didn’t go without its fair share of problems but overall it was a very rewarding experience. From the welcoming campus to the vast diversity of the students and ample opportunities to grow as an individual the school helped make me feel like I truly belonged. As far as things I would change, I would say they need to work on helping students in regard to their financial needs. There were many times when other students and I failed to reach the financial aid office in times of need which caused problems for us in various aspects. Other than that, I am forever grateful for the opportunity to attend this school and I will never take it for granted.... Read 2,666 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 35%

• Net price $12,539

• SAT range 1010-1150

• La Jolla, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  3,847 reviews

Junior: It is a great school overall that tries to engage its students. The classes are definitely difficult, especially for stem majors, but we do feel challenged and it does help build a great foundation for grad school or medical school. I also like that there is so much research available, although very competitive. The programs at UCSD and offices really try to engage with students whether freshmen or transfers, and always puts on fun events to connect students with one another.... Read 3,847 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 34%

• Net price $15,632

• SAT range 1270-1480

• Tampa, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  7,358 reviews

Alum: Classes were easy to access on campus according to major. The campus was beautiful. If you needed assistance with registering for classes or getting transcripts, it was easy to locate the person needed.... Read 7,358 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $10,004

• SAT range 1160-1320

• Champaign, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  4,875 reviews

Freshman: My experience at UIUC so far has truly been amazing. The professors there are passionate, the students are welcoming, and the overall atmosphere is so great! I would like to see changes made to the universities involvement in making campus more sustainable. There is a lot that can and should be updated to conserve natural resources.... Read 4,875 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $14,272

• SAT range 1320-1510

• Davis, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  4,980 reviews

Alum: My time at UC Davis was an overall positive experience in which I grew both professionally and personally. Davis is a friendly college community that allowed me to branch out into new friend groups and explore several extracurriculars. The friendly environment and culture is one of the best aspects of the school. On the other hand, Davis may lack the reputation and/or high-end facilities at bigger name schools.... Read 4,980 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $16,640

• SAT range 1160-1400

• New Brunswick, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  5,963 reviews

Junior: Rutgers University is a transformative institution that offers a world-class education. The faculty's expertise and dedication to student success are remarkable. The campus facilities are top-notch, providing an excellent environment for learning and growth. Rutgers fosters a vibrant and diverse community, promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange. The university's emphasis on research and innovation opens doors to exciting opportunities. With extensive extracurricular offerings and a robust alumni network, Rutgers, particularly the Business School, prepares students for rewarding careers. Proud to be a Scarlet Knight!... Read 5,963 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $11,803

• SAT range 1240-1470

• Raleigh, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,369 reviews

Alum: I loved NC State. I met my best friends while there and I am so thankful to my time there. I loved on campus for two years and I felt safe. Campus was a blast, always something to do. The gym was awesome! Food was great on campus. Going to sporting events was great! I went to soccer, ice hockey, volleyball, football, and basketball games! Such a wonderful time. I miss it!... Read 3,369 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $14,328

• SAT range 1270-1440

• Birmingham, AL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  2,254 reviews

Junior: UAB is a great environment and extremely welcoming. In my experience they have been extremely helpful in making sure students are set up for success and provide loads of opportunities. I wish UAB was a closed off campus separate of the city, but at the same time, being in the city adds to its charm.... Read 2,254 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $16,990

• SAT range 1140-1340

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,253 reviews

Senior: When I was applying for colleges, I wanted to move out of state at first. Being from eastern Pennsylvania, I strived to branch out more as I was coming of age. I had not seen much of the other side of PA in my lifetime. Pitt ended up being the last school I applied to and it wasn't even on the list. But I decided to go to stay in state but also get the distance and change that I wanted. Looking bad, Pitt helped me grow a lot as an individual. I admired the strong willed community that they fostered, especially when it came to supporting our sports teams and club organizations. I enjoyed how connected the campus was to city life. Regarding some changes, I wish I could see more intentional action for the support of minorities and LGBTQ+ members in the campus community. Pitt has shown support at times but there needs to be more additional inputs of policies and leadership action to make students feel safe. Same could be said with the way Pitt Police treats students on occasion.... Read 4,253 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $22,996

• SAT range 1250-1470

• Bronx, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,081 reviews

Alum: It is a great college, a beautiful campus with phenomenal professors who have made a lasting impact on my life. I love the different departments, advisors and sub-advisors that are available for just about any question. Whether it is what path you need to be on or what path to choose next. I am a recent graduate and decided on a different career path. I got interested in Occupational Therapy and want to pursue that at a graduate level. I was still able to find the right person to help me with my questions and concerns within the Lehman Community. He reviewed my transcript and advised me on what to do next to get into graduate school. He even suggested scholarships, grants, and even weighed the pros and cons of going to private and public universities. All in all, I was appreciative of the advice, and he encouraged me to join the department so I can schedule future appointments with him in case I have any more questions. Would recommend 8.5/10.... Read 1,081 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $3,220

• SAT range 960-1080

• Detroit, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  2,886 reviews

Junior: Wayne State University provides many programs that can help students succeed regardless of their major or status. Campus has a lot of free to use facilities for students like a gym, private room usage for those who need a quiet open space for interviews and free laptop distribution for students, just to name a few benefits.... Read 2,886 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $15,710

• SAT range 1030-1260