School of Public Affairs
#9 best public affairs
graduate program
Top 10 in 8 specialty programs
– U.S. News & World Report, 2026
Discover why the School of Public Affairs is right for you.
Explore a wide range of programs from public administration to emergency management, and find the perfect fit for your career aspirations.
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your path
Undergraduate Programs
You will be joining a group of faculty, students and staff that are truly as committed to effecting change as you are. We’ll challenge you to take on a problem that is important to you—and throughout your time with ASU, you’ll have a chance to test ways to find a solution.
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Public Administration
Public Administration programs prepare students for public service, public management and policy analysis at the local, state and national levels of government.
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Public Policy
Programs in public service and public policy prepare students for work in government at all levels and in nonprofit organizations through comprehensive coverage of topics in public policy, public leadership and management, and urban studies.
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Program Evaluation and Data Analytics
By leveraging the power of information, this program empowers you to enhance organizational performance and support positive social impact through data and evidence.
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Emergency Management and Homeland Security
Emergency Management and Homeland Security degrees blend concepts of public policy and management, criminal justice, science and technology to enhance and foster critical thinking.
Learn moreCareer Connections
Unlock your potential through real-world internships. Join the thousands of SPA students who gain invaluable experience, build professional networks, and launch their careers.
Next Generation Service Corps
The NGSC is an undergraduate leadership development program where students from all majors learn to address real issues in the public, private and nonprofit sectors.
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Internships
Internships enhance your education by providing hands-on experience.
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Center for Local Government Education and Innovation
Developing effective leaders to serve our communities.
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Career Resources
Career Connections is an innovative way to personalize the vast resources of ASU for any stage of your career as a student and alum of SPA.
Learn moreWe're committed to your long-term success
ASU PhD candidate selected as Emerging Scholar
For the second time in three years, a doctoral candidate from Arizona State University’s School of Public Affairs has been named an Emerging Scholar of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA).
Research and training centers
ASU News
Highly Ranked Graduate Programs
#9
Public Affairs school in the nation
Listed as one of the best MPA programs
#1
Local Government Management
#3
in Nonprofit Management
#6
in Urban Policy
#9
in Public Finance and Budgeting
#15
in Social Policy
#2
in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
#5
Public Management and Leadership
#6
in Environmental Policy and Management
#13
in Public Policy Analysis
#2
in Information and Technology Management
Source: US News & World Report
The rankings of master’s programs are based on a survey of 272 programs nationwide.