School of Public Affairs

"Studying at SPA was a game-changer, significantly shaping my perspective and approach to homeland security policy… The curriculum provided a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues surrounding terrorism and homeland security, and expert faculty guidance equipped me with the necessary knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a meaningful contribution to the field. As an international student, my experience was immensely enriching and enlightening."

SPA is Turning 90!

2024 marks the 90th anniversary for the School of Public Affairs. We've compiled a look back at our 90 year history. For the past nine decades, �鶹ԭ��’s School of Public Affairs has been a leader in public affairs education.

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Introducing Alison Jacknowitz as our Interim Dean!

We are pleased she will lead our school in the 2023-24 academic year.

Message from the Dean

Announcement · April 9

�鶹ԭ��’s School of Public Affairs Ranked No. 13 Overall, Highest in D.C., by U.S. News and World Report

According to the 2025 edition of U.S. News and World Report’s rankings of Public Affairs Graduate Schools, the �鶹ԭ�� SPA continues to earn high marks.
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SPA Highlights

Discover Your Future with �鶹ԭ��

Working, Grad School, or Both

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Featured News

Political Science · September 24

Tracing the Roots of Antisemitism

SPA professor explores the relationship between education and prejudice across countries.
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Announcement · October 17

New Podcast Series, American FLOTUS, Debuts

The First Ladies Association for Research and Education and the popular podcast American POTUS launched a new podcast that focuses on US first ladies, their impact, legacies, and evolution of the role and office.
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Criminology · September 24

"Survivor-Defined Justice"

SPA professor explores the civil legal needs of sexual assault survivors.
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Specialty Rankings

number 12

for Public Policy Analysis

by U.S. News & World Report's 2024 Public Affairs Graduate Schools Rankings

number 13

in Public Finance & Budgeting

by U.S. News & World Report's 2024 Public Affairs Graduate Schools Rankings

number 22

in Urban Policy

by U.S. News & World Report's 2024 Public Affairs Graduate Schools Rankings