School of Public Affairs

School of Public Affairs
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Mufarrj Alsubaiy

SPA/MS '23

"Studying at SPA was a game-changer, significantly shaping my perspective and approach to homeland security policy…", says Mufarrj Alsubaiy. "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."

Kerwin Hall 1930

SPA is celebrating our 90th Anniversary!

2024 marked 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, American University’s School of Public Affairs has been a leader in public affairs education

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Alison Jacknowitz

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

US News Rankings

Announcement ·

American University’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 AU SPA continues to earn high marks.
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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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PEER

The Postsecondary Equity & Economics Research (PEER) Center is an initiative focused on promoting more equitable outcomes in higher education.

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Discover Your Future with AU

Six months after graduation,
AU
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% of Graduates are now Working, Grad School, or Both

Top Employers
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Featured News

Seth Gershenson

Public Management and Leadership ·

The Teacher Down the Hall

SPA professor examines the impact of types of teacher experience and peer characteristics on educational outcomes by race.
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A collage of three AU Sweetheart couples

Alumni ·

Eagles in Love: Get to Know Three More AU Sweetheart Couples

Introducing the AU Sweetheart Questionnaire, featuring some quick questions with a trio of Eagle couples who found love through AU. 
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Photo courtesy of Angela Chiarenza.

Student Life ·

Leaders Learn How to Put Their Best Hoof Forward

School of Public Affairs adjunct professor Angela Chiarenza’s Political and Organizational Leadership class participated in a leadership development program with horses at Simple Changes Therapeutic Riding Center on February 8.
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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