This fall, we are excited to welcome new students into Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy & Leadership Class of 2024. With an ever-increasing need for ethical policy leaders, this year’s application cycle was proof of the growing interest in our school, mission, and program. Our aim is to bring in a diverse group of students who will go out and make a difference in their respective communities, and this year’s cohort reflects that in their diversity of backgrounds, interests, and experiences. 

This year, we received 181 applications from current UVA students and admitted 65% of applicants; additional students will join the incoming Class from outside institutions. This year, we welcome students from across the country, including Michigan, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and California, as well as students with dual or primary citizenship in five countries. First generation students make up 14% of our incoming class. Minority students comprise a third of the class, and women comprise almost three-quarters of the program.

Incoming students have GPAs ranging from 3.23 to 4.0. Most students (middle 50%) had a GPA that fell within the 3.6-3.9 range. Many of our students are also pursuing a major or minor outside of Batten, including in economics, global studies, religious studies, and media studies in the College, and Youth and Social Innovation in the School of Education and Human Development.

Our incoming students are engaged in a variety of CIOs, organizations, and sports teams at the University, including a cappella groups, the Office of African American Affairs Peer Advisor program, UVA Women’s Swimming and Diving Team, the UVA Center for Politics, Student Council, Meriwether Lewis Institute, Navy ROTC, and NAMI On Grounds. They are actively involved in the community through Madison House and other organizations across Charlottesville, such as the Haven and the Legal Aid Justice Center. Additionally, they have completed undergraduate research, and many hold part-time positions across Grounds, including with the Office of Housing and Residence Life and the Office of Orientation and New Student Programming.

Together, our differences make us stronger. Together, we are Batten. We look forward to bringing in the next group of committed policy leaders in the months to come! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to send us an email at BattenAdmissions@virginia.edu or make an appointment to discuss the BA program with Anne or Courtney!