Executive Departments

Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Responsible for developing and executing federal laws related to farming, forestry, rural economic development, and food safety.

Department of Commerce

Focuses on promoting economic growth, managing international trade, and gathering economic and demographic data for business and government decision-making.

Department of Defense (DOD)

The largest executive department; it coordinates and oversees all agencies and functions of the government relating directly to national security and the United States Armed Forces.

Department of Education (ED)

Establishes policy for, administers, and coordinates most federal assistance to education, including student loan programs.

Department of Energy (DOE)

Concerned with United States policies regarding energy and safety in handling nuclear material, including radioactive waste disposal.

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

Aims to protect the health of all Americans and provide essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

Formed in response to the September 11 attacks, its primary responsibilities include counter-terrorism, border security, immigration, and disaster management.

Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

Develops and executes policies on housing and metropolises; focuses on increasing homeownership and supporting community development.

Department of the Interior (DOI)

Responsible for the management and conservation of most federal lands and natural resources; it also manages programs relating to Native Americans.

Department of Justice (DOJ)

Responsible for the enforcement of the law and administration of justice in the United States, equivalent to the justice or interior ministries of other countries.

Department of Labor (DOL)

Responsible for occupational safety, wage and hour standards, unemployment insurance benefits, reemployment services, and some economic statistics.

Department of State (DOS)

Advises the President and leads the nation in foreign policy issues; handles international relations and maintains U.S. embassies abroad.

Department of Transportation (DOT)

Oversees the development and maintenance of the nation's transportation systems, including highways, air travel, and railroads.

Department of the Treasury

Manages government revenue, prints currency, collects taxes (via the IRS), and advises the President on economic and financial policy.

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Provides healthcare services, social support, and financial benefits to honorably discharged military veterans and their families.