School of Public Affairs

School of Public Affairs
Front of Kerwin Hall, School of Public Affairs
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Ellis Scherer

Ellis Scherer says that "At SPA I was privileged to learn from some of the most brilliant and experienced minds in public service. My professors not only provided me with all the tools necessary to thrive in my career, but also inspired my desire for success through their passion and commitment to educate the next generation of professionals."

AU SPA Ranked No. 9

Announcement ·

American University’s School of Public Affairs Is Ranked No. 9 Overall in New U.S. News & World Report Rankings

American University’s School of Public Affairs receives its highest U.S. News & World Report ranking since the publication began rating public affairs programs in 1995.
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Alison Jacknowitz

Introducing Alison Jacknowitz as our Interim Dean!

We are pleased she will lead our school in the 2024-25 academic year.

Message from the Dean

SPA Highlights

Event Dispatches

Dispatches

SPA shares insider information on the world of public affairs, from choosing and applying to the right program for you, to courses, careers, and the culture.

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Front of Kerwin Hall

Recruitment Events


Browse our graduate recruitment events to meet SPA on campus, on the road, or through one of our virtual sessions!

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Public Servant Planning and Skills Network: New Path, Same Purpose

Public Servant Planning and Skills Network

The Public Servant Planning and Skills Network supports public servants as they navigate unplanned career transitions.

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Discover Your Future with AU

Six months after graduation,
AU
in
in

% of Graduates are now Working, Grad School, or Both

Top Employers
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Featured News

person holding puppy

Policy Brief ·

Exploring the Link Between Animal Cruelty and Intimate Partner and Family Violence

An SPA Policy Brief
Full Story

dol harubang statues on the AU quad

International Global Policy and Administration ·

From Passive to Active Victimhood in the Shadow of State Violence

SPA professor examines the role of litigation in the formation of victim identities, in the context of South Korea’s Jeju 4.3 Incident
Full Story

Specialty Rankings

number 12

for Public Policy Analysis

by U.S. News & World Report's 2025 Public Affairs Graduate Schools Rankings

number 13

in Public Finance & Budgeting

by U.S. News & World Report's 2025 Public Affairs Graduate Schools Rankings

number 22

in Urban Policy

by U.S. News & World Report's 2025 Public Affairs Graduate Schools Rankings