BA in Govt.: Politics/Policy to MAPP: Think Tank/Policy
Develop a Faith-Based Approach to the Political Arena with a BA in Government – Politics and Policy to MAPP – Think Tank and Policy Research
Do you have a passion for government, politics, and public policy? Are you eager to make a difference in the policy arena? If that sounds like you, consider pursuing Liberty University’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Government – Politics and Policy and Master of Arts in Public Policy (MAPP) – Think Tank and Policy Research dual degree! This program allows you to streamline your undergraduate and graduate studies through an accelerated learning format as you take this important next step in your educational journey.
At Liberty, you can learn about the fundamentals of analyzing, writing, speaking, and conducting research on a variety of public policy issues. Our bachelor’s in government and master’s in public policy offer an introduction to many core topics in this arena, including political and economic ideas, government institutions, free market processes, and the impact of the Christian worldview on government and economics. You’ll also have the opportunity to conduct research on policy issues of your choice, allowing you to dive deep into your interests and passions.
Our goal is to Train Champions for Christ who can make valuable contributions to real-world policy issues, which is why our courses seek to emphasize ethical considerations and Christian statesmanship. Pursue your BA in Government and MA in Public Policy at Liberty University and see how faith and politics intersect!
Credit Hours
View CoursesNext start date: Aug 18, 2025
Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC
Highlights
Highlights of Our Bachelor’s Degree in Government and Master’s in Public Policy
Accelerate Your Path with a Dual Degree
This integrated bachelor’s and master’s program is designed to help you complete both degrees faster than if pursued separately. Through Liberty’s accelerated learning format, you can gain a competitive edge in the job market while saving time and tuition, all without sacrificing academic quality or rigor.
Study at an Accredited, Respected University
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your degree is recognized and respected by employers, government agencies, and graduate institutions. Our commitment to academic excellence is matched by our dedication to integrity and Christian values.
Join a Nationally Recognized Honor Society
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for Pi Sigma Alpha, the only national honor society for government and political science students in the United States. Membership in this prestigious society provides you with opportunities for networking, publishing, and academic recognition through its affiliation with the Association of College Honor Societies.
A School Rooted in Tradition and Leadership
The Helms School of Government, named in honor of U.S. Senator Jesse Helms, is dedicated to promoting traditional values, conservative principles, and ethical leadership. Here, you’ll be challenged to think critically about policy, governance, and public service through a curriculum that emphasizes integrity, responsibility, and civic engagement.
Take Advantage of Strategic Internship Opportunities
Liberty’s Washington Fellowship gives you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in our nation’s capital. Whether you’re interning on Capitol Hill, with a government agency, or a policy organization, you’ll build professional connections and apply classroom knowledge in real-world political and public policy settings.
Career Potential
What Can You Do with This Degree?
Liberty University’s Bachelor’s in Government – Politics and Policy to Master’s Degree in Public Policy – Think Tank and Policy Research can help prepare you to pursue the following occupations:
- City manager
- Community organizer
- Legislative analyst
- Political consultant
- Political scientist
- Public administrator
- Public relations specialist
- Researcher
#4 Best College Campus in America
At Liberty, you’ll find an affordable, high-quality education designed to help equip students like you for the real world. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition as the #4 Best College Campus in America by Niche.com.
Earning your degree from a nonprofit university with state-of-the-art resources like ours can help set you apart from your peers.
Courses
What Will You Study in Our Bachelor’s in Government – Politics and Policy to Master’s Degree in Public Policy – Think Tank and Policy Research?
The BA in Government section of this program offers a mix of core government courses and specialized politics and policy courses. You’ll study a wide range of topics, from comparative politics and political economy to American exceptionalism and applied ethics. You can also dive into the fundamentals of research and writing in the field of public policy.
Additionally, you will explore the intricacies of areas such as the following:
- American judicial and legislative systems
- American political parties
- Ancient and modern political and economic ideas
- International relations
- Political philosophy
- State and local government
As you venture into the MAPP portion of the program, you can build upon what you learned in the BA. Topics of graduate study include economics, international diplomacy, geopolitics, statesmanship, American governance, and applied research methods. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop research on policy issues of your choice, providing an immersive research path tailored to your interests. To round out the program, you’ll research, write, and defend a thesis – so you can make an academic contribution to the body of knowledge in public policy.
Featured Politics and Policy Courses
GOVT 324 – Applied Ethics in Public Policy
GOVT 474 – American Political Parties
PPOG 502 – Economics and Public Policy
PPOL 501 – Foundations of American Governance: An Introduction to Public Policy
Degree Information
- This program falls under the Helms School of Government
- View the Degree Completion Plan
- Check out our course catalog
- Transfer in up to 75% of the credits for the BA in Government and up to 50% of the credits for the MAPP
BENEFITS
Why Choose Liberty’s Bachelor of Arts in Government to Public Policy Master’s Program?
Faculty with Real-World Political Experience
At Liberty University, your professors bring more than just academic knowledge, they offer practical insight gained from real experience in politics and policy. You’ll explore both the theory and application of government, preparing you for careers in public service, policy analysis, advocacy, and beyond. Our faculty is committed to helping you develop into a leader who is equipped with both skill and integrity.
Take Advantage of the Washington Fellowship
If you’re eager to engage directly in the political process, our Washington Fellowship is a standout opportunity. This program allows you to spend a semester interning in Washington, D.C., gaining hands-on experience in national or international affairs. You’ll also have the chance to connect with peers through Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society, a great way to build relationships and boost your professional network.
Grow in a Faith-Focused Campus Community
As a residential student, you’ll find much more than academic training. You’ll join a vibrant, Christ-centered community. From Convocation and Campus Community to clubs and student events, Liberty offers many ways for you to connect, grow spiritually, and build lasting friendships. Our goal is to support your personal development while you pursue your professional aspirations.
Pursue a Dual Degree That Maximizes Your Time
Liberty’s dual degree format allows you to seamlessly move from a bachelor’s in government to a master’s in public policy, saving you time and helping you build momentum in your academic and professional journey. This streamlined path not only accelerates your education but also equips you with the broad knowledge and practical tools you’ll need to impact your community, state, or nation through meaningful service.
Admissions
How Do You Become a Bachelor’s in Government – Politics and Policy Student?
Every application is reviewed by the admission committee on a case-by-case basis, meaning there are no set minimums for acceptance. However, all applicants must submit the following documents* for admission:
- Admission application
- Official high school transcripts
- Official college transcripts (if applicable)
- Admission essay
Results from the CLT, SAT, or ACT are not required for admission, but may be used in consideration for merit-based aid.
*Note that additional documentation may be requested by the admission committee after your application has been received.
Have Questions?
We’ll make sure you have the information you need to take your next step.