Minor in Federal Policy and Management

Students enrolled in an Ohio State graduate program outside of the Glenn College with a GPA of 3.0 or higher can add the minor.

Students must attain a grade of B or better in each course to earn the minor.

Once you have gathered your application components listed below, apply for the program here.

Your application must include: 

• Resume
• Personal statement about how the certificate advances your professional goals and why you want to participate

Admissions:

Shortly after application submission, candidates may be asked to interview with a member of the Glenn College’s D.C. Office. The objective of the interview is to better understand candidates’ interest and ensure their professional goals are aligned with the structure of the minor. 

Candidates will be assessed on their academic ability and demonstrated interest:

• Can the candidate succeed in the required coursework? This criterion is assessed based on GPA and academic record.
• Does the candidate demonstrate strong interest in federal policy and management as a complement to their field of expertise and/or career in the federal government? This criterion is assessed based on responses to essays and the interview.

The Federal Sector Internship component is a highly valuable experiential learning opportunity for those looking to gain relationships and experience.

Waiving the Internship Requirement:

Those with a permanent position using this program as a way to boost their skills and understanding may not want or need an internship placement. This requirement will be waived for students with:

• At least one year of full-time professional experience relating to the field of federal public affairs including experience such as the development and implementation of public policy, public management, nonprofit management, international relations, or government relations.

Finding an Internship:

While participants are ultimately responsible for securing their internship placement, they are provided a significant level of support in the process.

Students are encouraged to find placements in federal agencies. Congressional offices, committees and think tanks are also potential internship sites.

Paid Placements:

The Glenn College expects graduate and professional students to secure paid internships, but this is a matter of personal circumstance. Students might be able to use external funding, should that be available to them through their respective department or other sources.

Students will secure housing in Washington on their own; however, Glenn College staff can share resources to support the housing search. Washington offers a wide range of short-term housing options for a variety of needs.

The Glenn College invests in academic programming and in-residence support for students. Three faculty and staff work full-time in Washington to provide students, and our partners, with comprehensive on-the-ground support.

In addition to having the support of a D.C.-based team, participants will engage with Ohio State alumni and in the greater D.C. community through organized programming and events. Students will be provided structured ways to build their networks and connect with mentors in their chosen field.

Participants will also be matched with an alumni mentor. Mentors provide an added layer of support, and the program is designed to connect students to a more experienced alum who can help students broaden their professional networks, enhance their classroom experience and prepare for the job search process.