BARNARD COLLEGE · UNITED STATES
Science and Public Policy Minor
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€63k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Interdisciplinary FocusCombines science, policy, and ethics
- Critical Analysis SkillsDevelops ability to analyze complex issues
- Broad Course SelectionCovers medicine, public health, genomics, environment
- Career PreparationPrepares for roles in science, policy, and advocacy
- Flexible CurriculumNo strict course order, suitable for all years
The Science and Public Policy (SCPP) minor at Barnard College allows students to explore the complex moral and ethical issues that arise where science, public policy, and societal concerns intersect. The program is designed to equip students with the ability to critically analyze various issues, from medicine and public health to genomics, technology, and environmental science, considering both their scientific basis and broader societal implications. This minor prepares students to become informed citizens, scientists, and policymakers ready to address future scientific challenges. Students pursuing the SCPP minor will develop a holistic understanding of how scientific advancements impact society and how policy decisions shape scientific development. The curriculum encourages critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning, drawing courses from various departments. Graduates will be prepared to engage with and contribute to discussions and solutions at the cutting edge of science and policy.
Curriculum
The SCPP minor requires completion of five courses (minimum 15 credits), with at least two courses from Category A (science-oriented) and two from Category B (policy-oriented). Courses listed in both categories can fulfill either requirement but not both. The program encourages students to take courses that interest them, with some introductory courses suitable for first-years.
- Overall Requirements
- Science, State Power, EthicsSCPP BC3334
- Genetics and SocietySCPP BC3336
- Topics in Biology: Crossroads in BioethicsBIOL UN3995 (Section 1)
- Biopharmaceutical Dev & RegBIOT GU4200
- Computers and SocietyCOMS W3410
- Privacy in a Networked WorldCOMS BC3420
- Conservation PolicyEEEB GU4005
- Hum Nature:DNA,Race & IdentityEEEB GU4321
- Science for Sustainable DevptEESC UN2330
- Environmental LawEESC BC3040
- Data:Past, Present and FutureHSAM UN2901
- Topics in Operations ResearchIEOR E4575
- Topics in NeuroethicsPSYC BC3387
- Fundamentals of Global HealthPUBH UN3100
- Introduction to Public HealthPUBH UN3200
- Data Science and Health Equity in New York CityPUBH UN3400
- Intro to Environmental LawSDEV UN2000
- Environmental Policy and GovernanceSDEV UN2050
- Challenges of Sustainable DevSDEV UN2300
- Climate Change and LawSDEV UN3355
- Energy LawSDEV UN3366
- The Politics of CareANTH UN3665
- Global Politics of ReproductionHIST BC3910
- Hum Rgts in Theory& PracticeHRTS BC1025
Careers
A minor in Science and Public Policy prepares students for diverse career paths that require an understanding of scientific issues, policy-making, and ethical considerations. Graduates can pursue further studies or enter professions in various sectors where these interdisciplinary skills are highly valued. Students interested in post-graduate work should consult with the SCPP co-directors.
- Policy Analyst
- Public Health Professional
- Science Communicator
- Environmental Consultant
- Bioethicist
- Research Assistant (in policy-related fields)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition and living costs for this minor?
- The tuition for the 2026-2027 academic year is $73,120 USD. Estimated living costs for resident students are $29,408 USD per year, including housing, meals, books, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses.
- What are the requirements to declare the Science and Public Policy minor?
- You must be an admitted Barnard College student and declare the minor by March 1st of your senior year. All courses counting towards the minor must be completed or in progress at the time of declaration.
- How many courses are needed for the minor?
- The Science and Public Policy minor requires the completion of five courses, totaling a minimum of 15 credits. At least two courses must be from Category A (science-oriented) and two from Category B (policy-oriented).
- What kind of careers can I pursue with this minor?
- This minor prepares students for roles such as Policy Analyst, Public Health Professional, Science Communicator, Environmental Consultant, Bioethicist, and Research Assistant in policy-related fields.
- Can I get help with course selection or program questions?
- Yes, you can contact the SCPP co-directors, Professor Brian Mailloux (bmaillou@barnard.edu) or Assistant Professor Amy Zhou (azhou@barnard.edu), for questions regarding course requirements, approvals, or the program.
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Fees
Tuition (international)$73,120 USD per year
Tuition (home)$73,120 USD per year
Living$29,408 USD per year (estimated for resident students)
The stated costs are for the 2026-2027 academic year and are subject to change. The living cost estimate for residents ($29,408) includes housing ($14,054), meals ($9,204), books/supplies ($1,200), miscellaneous ($1,830), transportation ($1,070), and direct loan fees ($50). For commuters, the total basic budget is $86,572, with housing at $5,030 and meals at $1,800. These are estimates for a 9-month period (September to May).
How to apply
1. Admissions to Barnard CollegeApply and be admitted to Barnard College. For general admissions inquiries, contact admissions@barnard.edu or 212-854-2014. You can also find your regional admissions representative on the Barnard website.
2. Explore Course OfferingsReview the SCPP course list and identify courses from Category A (science-oriented) and Category B (policy-oriented) that align with your interests. At least two courses from each category are required, totaling five courses for the minor.
3. Consult Co-Directors (Optional, but Recommended)If you have questions about course requirements, course approvals, or the SCPP program, contact the co-directors: Professor Brian Mailloux (bmaillou@barnard.edu) or Assistant Professor Amy Zhou (azhou@barnard.edu).
4. Declare the MinorSubmit the minor election form in Slate. Ensure all courses counting for the minor are either 'in progress' or completed before submission. The minor will be listed as 'Science, Policy, & Ethics' on your academic record.
5. Enroll in CoursesRegister for SCPP courses through the college's registration system. Note that SCPP seminar courses may place students on a waitlist, with priority sometimes given to seniors needing to fulfill degree requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition and living costs for this minor?
+
The tuition for the 2026-2027 academic year is $73,120 USD. Estimated living costs for resident students are $29,408 USD per year, including housing, meals, books, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses.
What are the requirements to declare the Science and Public Policy minor?
+
You must be an admitted Barnard College student and declare the minor by March 1st of your senior year. All courses counting towards the minor must be completed or in progress at the time of declaration.
How many courses are needed for the minor?
+
The Science and Public Policy minor requires the completion of five courses, totaling a minimum of 15 credits. At least two courses must be from Category A (science-oriented) and two from Category B (policy-oriented).
What kind of careers can I pursue with this minor?
+
This minor prepares students for roles such as Policy Analyst, Public Health Professional, Science Communicator, Environmental Consultant, Bioethicist, and Research Assistant in policy-related fields.
Can I get help with course selection or program questions?
+
Yes, you can contact the SCPP co-directors, Professor Brian Mailloux (bmaillou@barnard.edu) or Assistant Professor Amy Zhou (azhou@barnard.edu), for questions regarding course requirements, approvals, or the program.