Fast Facts
- Founded: 2007
- Average graduating class size: 80 (bachelor’s students)
What programs and concentrations are offered in the Batten School?
The Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy’s multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving and emphasis on ethics reinforce their focus on how leadership works, why context matters in decision-making and which actions lead to tangible results. Batten gives students an opportunity to develop their critical and analytical thinking, and their communication, leadership and research skills. The Batten School offers two programs that lead toward the graduate professional degree of Master of Public Policy. An accelerated version of the degree enables a select group of UVA undergraduates the opportunity to earn the degree after one additional year of study following receipt of their bachelor’s degree.
How is advising handled?
Students are assigned a faculty advisor upon entry to the University. After a student declares their major, they are assigned an advisor within their major.
What do UVA faculty have to say about Batten?
“Students emerge from the Batten School understanding social responsibility and equipped with specific skills to work collaboratively and successfully in real-world environments to achieve a shared mission and accomplish common goals.” Allan C. Stam, Professor of Public Policy and Politics
What do students have to say about Batten?
“I originally was enrolled in the undergraduate program at Batten, but then after a year, I realized how much I enjoyed studying public policy & decided I wanted to study it at the graduate level. I transferred to the Master of Public Policy program through Batten. Both programs have been challenging, but so rewarding because the work I do is so applicable to real life. Whether you are interested in education policy or humanitarian crises or national security, the wide array of electives & professors each with their own expertise makes it easy to find experts to learn from.” Madeline Fitzgerald (Batten ’20)
How do I know if Batten is right for me?
Students interested in leadership or public policy should consider programs in the Batten School. Many alumni go on to work anywhere from government agencies to consulting firms, all with an eye on leadership and shaping the future.
For more information, please visit the Batten School website and the Batten School’s records.