Bachelor Of Public Affairs And Policy Management (Optional Co-op) at Carleton University - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-05-08

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management (BPAPM) program at Carleton University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of public policy. This program emphasizes the impact of public policies on various societal aspects, including climate change, inequality, and access to essential services. Students will engage with critical issues and learn to analyze the decisions made by governments, enhancing their understanding of public administration, international affairs, and political processes. The program uniquely leverages Carleton's location in Canada’s national capital, providing students with unparalleled access to government institutions and policy-making environments.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management program is structured to provide a comprehensive education in public policy and administration. Key details include:

Program Length: Typically completed in four years.
Credits: The program requires a total of 120 credits for graduation.
Co-op Option: Students with a B+ grade or better at the end of their second year are eligible for a co-op placement, allowing them to gain practical experience in various organizations.
International Exchange: Opportunities to study abroad for one or two terms at partner institutions.
Specializations: Students can choose to concentrate in areas such as Communication and Policy Studies, Development Policy Studies, International Policy Studies, and Public Policy and Administration.

This program is designed to foster a deep understanding of public policy, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience to prepare students for successful careers in the field.

Featured Experiences

Co-op Program: Provides students with hands-on experience in federal government departments, NGOs, or private companies.
Kroeger Policy Connects: A first-year initiative that connects students with local policy organizations to gain insights into public policy in practice.
International Exchange: Opportunities to study public affairs at partner institutions worldwide, enhancing global perspectives.
Unique Location: The program benefits from its proximity to the federal government and numerous international organizations, offering students unique networking opportunities.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Policy Analyst: Analyze and evaluate government policies, providing recommendations for improvements.
City Councillor: Represent constituents and make decisions on local government issues.
Public Affairs Consultant: Advise organizations on public policy and government relations strategies.
NGO Program Manager: Oversee programs and initiatives within non-governmental organizations focused on social issues.
Foreign Service Officer: Represent Canada in international relations and diplomacy, working in embassies and consulates.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to public policy and governance in Canada and beyond.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-05-08

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management (BPAPM) program at Carleton University, international students must meet specific Academic Requirements. Here are the key points to consider:

High school graduation is the normal minimum level of study required for admission to the first year of an undergraduate program.
Academic performance in previous studies is the main determining factor for admission.
Transcripts from final years of high school must be provided along with the graduation diploma or certificate, and any graduation exam results.
If applying during the final year of study, mid-year or interim marks will be reviewed for an early/conditional offer.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For the Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management program, there are no specific prerequisite courses required. However, it is essential to have a strong overall academic performance.

The application deadlines are as follows:

Start in September:
- Applications open: September of the preceding year
- Deadline to apply: April 1
- Deadline to apply: June 1 (for students whose transcripts originate in Canada or the US)
Start in January:
- Applications open: late September
- Deadline to apply: October 15
- Deadline to apply: November 15 (for students whose transcripts originate in Canada or the US)

It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure a smooth admission process. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

The language of instruction at Carleton is English. For admission into Carleton’s graduate programs, you will need to demonstrate that your knowledge and use of English are strong enough for graduate studies at an English-language university.

If your first language is not English, you can demonstrate your language proficiency by:

Presenting one of the official Language Proficiency (ESL) test scores as defined in the table below;
Showing that you have completed ESLA 1900 or ESLA 1905 at Carleton University with a final grade of B- or higher; or
Presenting official certification (transcripts) that you have completed an undergraduate or graduate degree at a university in any country in which the primary language is English, where the language of instruction in the relevant educational institution was English, and the language of instruction in their most recently completed undergraduate or graduate degree was English.

Applicants who present their most recent degree and transcripts from a Canadian institution are exempt from language proficiency requirements, unless otherwise required by an individual program.

Note: Letters from your universities stating the medium of instruction is English are not acceptable.

Minimum Language Proficiency (ESL) test score requirement:

Language Proficiency Test	Score
Canadian Academic English Language Test (CAEL, CAEL-CE)	70 (minimum 60 in each band)
Duolingo English Test (DET)	125 (minimum 130 in Literacy; 135 in Comprehension; 115 in Conversation; 110 in Production)
IELTS, IELTS Online (Academic)	6.5 (minimum 6.0 in each band)
Pearson Test of English (PTE) including PTE Online (Academic)	60 overall (minimum 60 in each Communicative Skill)
TOEFL iBT (including iBT Home Edition)	86 (20 in reading and listening; 22 in speaking and writing)

* IELTS One-Skill Retake is accepted

** TOEFL MyBest Scores is accepted

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!