Becoming Batten

Dear incoming first years, welcome to UVA! As you embark on this exciting journey, the Batten Admissions Team is here to guide you through the endless opportunities available. Dive into our programs, from the Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Leadership to our specialized minors, and discover what makes Batten unique. Don't miss out on our events, ambassador-led office hours, and our weekly newsletter, Batten Beginnings, to stay in the loop. We’re thrilled to support you as you explore, engage, and excel in your first year and beyond!

With applications for Batten’s two-year Master of Public Policy program now open, read more about the application for this cycle and top tips for a successful application.

Join us as we welcome the dynamic Class of 2026 into the Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy & Leadership! With students hailing from across the country and around the globe, our incoming cohort brings a wealth of backgrounds, interests, and experiences to Batten. From participating in student organizations and community outreach, to pursuing multiple majors, these future policy leaders are ready to make a significant impact in their communities and beyond.

Batten is thrilled to welcome 72 new students to our Public Policy & Leadership minor, and 45 students into the Social Entrepreneurship minor, representing a wide array of backgrounds and academic interests. This year’s cohort includes students ready to make a significant impact in their fields. Read on to learn more about our incoming classes of minors

This fall, we welcome 98 talented students to our MPP Class of 2026, selected from a competitive pool of 446 applicants. Representing 23 states and 8 countries, these students come from 43 undergraduate institutions, including UVA, and bring a wide range of professional experiences, from biotechnology to military service. With a strong mix of backgrounds and perspectives, they embody the vibrant, global community that makes Batten unique.

With summer break coming to a close, the Admissions team is busy preparing for the fall semester. We are excited to offer some great ways to connect with our team in-person and virtually, no matter where you are. Before we outline the different ways for you to visit Batten, we will introduce ourselves.

Are you about to start your first or second year at UVA and feeling uncertain about the best path for you? Dive into our latest blog post from the Batten Admissions team! Discover essential tips and strategies to kick off your fall semester with confidence, especially if you're eyeing a future at the Batten School.

As we break for the summer, the Batten Office of Admission reflects on this year’s events and provides tips to help you prepare for next year’s application cycle.

Ready to take your first steps into the world of policy? Discover how the Bridge to Batten program can transform your journey with a dynamic CR/NC seminar, expert guidance from Batten faculty and staff, and continuous mentorship opportunities from current Batten students. Read on to hear from 2024 Teaching Fellow, Wyatt Carter, about what makes Bridge to Batten so special.

With shopping carts open and course enrollment for the fall on your mind, the Admissions team is sharing helpful tips and classes to consider as you prepare for application to the Batten School.

One question our current students frequently get asked is what sets Batten apart. Recent Lead Ambassador R.J. Rhodes sat down with a fellow Batten alumnus to share why they chose the Batten School. Read on to learn more.

It’s that time again! With course enrollment for the spring on your mind, the Admissions team is sharing helpful tips and classes to consider as you prepare for application to the Batten School.