Prospective Students

About the Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy Leadership

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy Leadership, offered through the Lott Leadership Institute and College of Liberal Arts at the University of Mississippi, is an interdisciplinary program that trains students to enter careers in public service. The B.A. in Public Policy Leadership prepares high-performing students for positions of leadership in an increasingly complex world. The interdisciplinary curriculum for the major incorporates economics, geography, history, philosophy and political science. While at the Institute, students learn the leadership qualities necessary to formulate and implement public policy, the methodological skills necessary for policy analysis, and the ethics of leadership.

Students learn to appreciate the global nature of responsible decision-making. LLI offers students the benefits of a small institute—selective admission, challenging academic program, small classes, and well-appointed facility—with the advantages of a large public university—affordable tuition and a wide range of resources and opportunities.

The B.A. in Public Policy Leadership degree program prepares students a variety of career possibilities, including graduate school, law school, or public service, or for working for a nonprofit or business. Graduates of the Institute are prepared to serve as leaders in their local communities, as well as in their state legislatures, Congress and U.S. embassies.

"We tell students we don't care whether they build sidewalks in Clinton, Mississippi, or run for president, but we want them involved in some level of society when they graduate," said Dr. Robert Haws, the program's founding academic director.

Application to the Lott Leadership Institute/Public Policy Leadership/Scholarships

To be considered for admission to the Public Policy Leadership degree program, students must first apply to the Lott Leadership Institute by completing the University of Mississippi online application. Once the application has been completed, access to the "Special Programs and Scholarships Application" will become available. Complete this application to be considered for admittance to the Lott Leadership Institute.

The Lott Leadership Institute offers scholarships to selected entering freshmen pursuing a B.A. degree in Public Policy Leadership and possessing exceptional leadership and academic records. To be eligible, you must complete the online Entering Freshman Scholarship Application form. Questions should be directed to Public Policy Leadership at 662-915-7347 or ppleader@olemiss.edu.