Program Overview:

About Public Policy and Governance

Public policy and governance systems shape our everyday lives in profound ways. Complex societal problems require good governance and the development of effective policies. Often, this involves close collaboration between a wide array of actors inside and outside of government. But how do these actors work together? How do they identify problems, create solutions, and implement and evaluate policies? The Public Policy and Governance program explores these critical questions and provides students with the analytical frameworks, tools, and skills required to solve these problems across a broad spectrum of careers.

Why study public policy and governance at StFX?

An applied and focused undergraduate degree, the StFX Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Governance (PGOV) is one of the few of its kind in Canada. It’s also one of the country’s best-funded undergraduate programs, offering support to over 200 students – amounting to over $660,000 per year.

PGOV students enjoy small class sizes and the opportunity to get to know their professors and their peers. Here, you will develop the ability to bridge ideological or values-based divides to find common ground and work together towards practical solutions.

StFX is also home to the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government, one of the few institutes dedicated to the study of public policy and governance at the undergraduate level. Named for Canada’s 18th prime minister (and StFX alumnus), the Institute brings together some of Canada’s top scholars and thinkers. PGOV students study in beautiful Mulroney Hall, a stunning new venue located in the heart of the StFX campus. Take a virtual tour.

First year at a glance

In first year, students are introduced to key concepts, context, and competencies required in the study and conduct of public policy and governance. The banner course for the year is PGOV 101: Introduction to Public Policy and Governance, which offers students a window into the complex world of governance and policymaking. Students will also take a range of complementary courses in disciplines such as Political Science, Economics, and Statistics designed to expand their knowledge of political and economic systems and build their skillset.

During their first year, students are encouraged to get involved in the PGOV program outside the classroom – attend talks from experienced guest speakers, get to know your professors and peers, and join the Public Policy and Governance Student Society and the Our House Too Society, both of which are run by PGOV students.

Future opportunities

The PGOV program prepares students for careers in a wide array of industries. Many of our students choose to continue their studies in graduate school, seeking advanced degrees in policy studies, law, business, and other fields. Often, graduates move directly into careers in relevant fields.

  • Advocacy, Lobbying, and Consulting
  • International Relations
  • Journalist
  • Lawyer
  • Public Policy and Administration
Headshot of a female student
The PGOV program offers real-world skills development that you cannot find in many other programs surrounding policy and government work. Not only expanding my knowledge but my employability was important for me when picking a program and university, StFX and the PGOV program delivers on that. I love the hands-on approach many of the professors take. You will not just connect with professors to discuss a paper, but to help you plan your education and career path. Odds are you will end up connecting with one or two specifically who can help guide you through this crazy time in your life. That is invaluable.
Kaytland Smith
Student
Headshot of a male student outdoors
The PGOV program provides you with the practical information that would not be found in a theory-based political science program. I have found that the ability to solve problems with feasible, educated, and realistic solutions has become an asset that has proved to be very helpful in all aspects of life. Every professor I’ve encountered offers real-world experience in the policy process. They have worked in policy sectors that play a crucial role in Canada’s continued prosperity and offer a level of insight into these policy areas that would not otherwise be possible without real experience.
Oscar Dewing
Student
Headshot of a male student indoors with people walking in the background.
I chose the PGOV program because of StFX’s record of developing outstanding leaders. What I love most about the program is that it is an interdisciplinary program. It allows you to bring a policy lens to classes in other disciplines, and enriches public policy classes with everyone bringing perspectives from a variety of disciplines. PGOV is all about challenging ideas. Getting to know your cohort and building a close-knit community where different perspectives are valued and respected will add so much more value to your degree. At the end of the day, you’re getting a degree that allows you to explore different policy sectors early in your policy career.
Marcel Desmond
Student
Headshot of a female student
I chose the PGOV program because I have always been interested in enacting changes in Canadian policies and politics, and StFX is one of the only undergraduate universities in Atlantic Canada to offer such a program. While I have a particular interest in gender policy/politics, the program has allowed me to learn from a wide range of topics that help me to expand my knowledge on current and past Canadian policies. StFX has taught me so much, and the small class sizes have allowed me to engage with my professors and peers, which has been invaluable to my undergraduate experience. I would highly recommend this program.
Taylor Gorman
Student
Headshot of a female student outdoors
I chose the PGOV program because it's one of the only undergraduate programs in the country focused solely on this discipline. StFX has also been the undergraduate university of several distinguished leaders. With the generous support of former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, I knew that this program would give me the tools to succeed in my future. The small class sizes have allowed for a comfortable learning environment and great class discussions. We build relationships with our professors which has helped me succeed in this program and has given me opportunities outside the classroom. The culture at StFX and the PGOV program has been everything I could have asked for and more.
Katherine Starr
Student

Check Your Costs and Requirements

Ready To Take The Next Step?
Get started on your application to become a Xaverian today!
Apply Now
Book a Campus TourLearn more about Public Policy and Governance

Check Out our Residences

Everything You Need To Know About Life In Antigonish

We are a small town with big things to offer. Consider us your home away from home!
Learn More