U.S. News & World Report has named the University of Maryland School of Public Policy among the top 25 public affairs graduate programs in the nation, climbing ten spots while also earning high accolades for homeland security, public finance and budgeting, and public policy analysis. This distinguished honor recognizes the School for its innovative leadership in policy and governance and its continued pursuit of serving the public good on a local, national and global scale.
“This acknowledgement is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our faculty, staff, students and alumni to advancing the field of public policy and our commitment to shaping tomorrow's leaders who will navigate complex societal challenges with integrity, innovation and compassion,” said School of Public Policy Dean Robert C. Orr. “The breadth of our programs, our uniquely structured curriculum, and the real-world experience of our faculty in all sectors enable us to offer students exceptional opportunities along with the skills and knowledge necessary to remain at the forefront of the evolving policy world.”
The School's innovative approach to policy analysis, multidisciplinary research and real-world application has equipped students with the knowledge and skills to tackle pressing issues including climate change, international security, healthcare access, poverty alleviation and education equity.
SPP’s master’s programs provide students with the experiential and hands-on learning, and the critical thinking, decision-making and leadership skills to turn their passions into action. Our renowned faculty are scholars and practitioners whose experience in government, nonprofits and the private sector is integral to their teaching.
The School ranks fourth in Homeland Security and Emergency Management graduate programs. Graduate students can opt to specialize in International Security and Economic Policy (ISEP) or can support research with the Center for International and Security Studies at Maryland.
SPP ranks 14th in Public Finance and Budgeting for its integration of financial policy analysis into its core curriculum. Interested students can specialize in Public Financial Management.
SPP ranks 29th in Public Policy Analysis, with students learning how to approach policy challenges from an interdisciplinary perspective and concisely articulate their ideas. Students have access to a variety of policy areas including environmental, energy, social, health, security and education policy.
With a focus on evidence-based policy making, ethical leadership and social equity, SPP continues to lead through academic excellence, innovate with evidence-based solutions to humanity’s grand challenges, and produce capable and passionate leaders.