Public Leadership

This interdisciplinary minor, offered by the Bob Graham Center for Public Service, is for students interested in careers in the public and private sectors and those interested in acquiring skills to develop as civically responsible citizens. Through coursework and practical experience, students gain the skills and knowledge necessary for effective and ethical leadership careers. The minor complements a variety of majors, including the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, journalism, and business.

Students pursuing the minor are expected to attend six events before graduation: public lectures, workshops, seminars and the speakers series offered by the center. These events provide an opportunity to interact with visiting speakers on topics of current interest. Students are required to submit online a one page paper about the event within 24 hours of participation.

Students must have a 3.25 GPA and have completed general education requirements before admission to the minor. Students normally apply during the sophomore or junior year; application deadlines are October 1 and April 1.

Applications must include:

1. A 2-3 page statement of purpose indicating why the student is applying and how the minor will help their future career
2. One letter of recommendation, preferably from a faculty member, and
3. A brief résumé.

Students must complete a minimum of six credits of coursework exclusive to the minor that cannot count toward their major(s) or other minors.

Required Courses

Substantive Policy Elective: Choose One

Choose an additional Substantive Policy elective from list above or a Leadership elective from list below