Ready to Shape Your Future? Start Your Journey with SPIA Today

The School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) at the University of Georgia offers a range of graduate programs designed to prepare you for impactful careers in public service, policy analysis, international affairs, academia, and beyond. Our programs emphasize rigorous scholarship, practical experience, and a commitment to ethical leadership in a rapidly changing world.

Students seeking to make a difference in government or nonprofit sectors often pursue the Master of Public Administration (MPA), a nationally recognized program that emphasizes public management, policy analysis, and organizational leadership. For those drawn to global affairs, the Master of International Policy (MIP) offers a focused curriculum on international security, diplomacy, and development, preparing graduates to navigate complex global challenges.

The Master of Arts in Political Science (MA) provides a strong foundation in political theory, comparative politics, and American politics—ideal for students considering doctoral study or careers in research and analysis. SPIA also offers two doctoral programs: the PhD in Political Science and International Affairs, a joint degree that combines advanced methodological training with deep expertise in political systems and global relations; and the PhD in Public Administration and Policy, which prepares scholars to contribute to the field through research, teaching, and public service, with a focus on public management and policy development.

Whether you’re driven to lead in public administration, shape global policy, or contribute to scholarly research, SPIA provides a strong foundation and a supportive academic community to help you achieve your goals.

Take a few minutes to explore our programs and discover the path that’s right for you.

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Lead with purpose

Pursuing a graduate degree at the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) positions you to become a leader in shaping policy, driving innovation, and making a lasting impact across sectors. Our graduates go on to shape the future of public policy, international relations, political analysis, and more, with many finding success in government, nonprofits, global organizations, and the private sector. At SPIA, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and real-world experience needed to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful change in communities around the world. With access to a wide range of faculty experts, internships, and networking opportunities, SPIA offers you the tools and connections to turn your passion into a career that makes a difference. Choose SPIA and prepare to lead with purpose.

Lead with purpose

Pursuing a graduate degree at the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) positions you to become a leader in shaping policy, driving innovation, and making a lasting impact across sectors. Our graduates go on to shape the future of public policy, international relations, political analysis, and more, with many finding success in government, nonprofits, global organizations, and the private sector. At SPIA, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and real-world experience needed to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful change in communities around the world. With access to a wide range of faculty experts, internships, and networking opportunities, SPIA offers you the tools and connections to turn your passion into a career that makes a difference. Choose SPIA and prepare to lead with purpose.


Award-Winning SPIA Students

Students at SPIA have consistently earned prestigious scholarships and fellowships that recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to public service. Recent recipients include Rhodes, Scoville, Truman, Fulbright, and Boren Scholars, as well as Rangel and Pickering Fellows—testaments to SPIA’s strong emphasis on global engagement, public policy, and international affairs. These awards not only reflect the caliber of our students but also open doors to advanced study, international experiences, and influential careers in government, diplomacy, and beyond.


Check out our videos below


Award-Winning SPIA Students

Students at SPIA have consistently earned prestigious scholarships and fellowships that recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to public service. Recent recipients include Rhodes, Scoville, Truman, Fulbright, and Boren Scholars, as well as Rangel and Pickering Fellows—testaments to SPIA’s strong emphasis on global engagement, public policy, and international affairs. These awards not only reflect the caliber of our students but also open doors to advanced study, international experiences, and influential careers in government, diplomacy, and beyond.


Check out our videos below

The Latest News from SPIA

MPA 60th Anniversary Alumni Highlight: Casey Dungan
MPA 60th Anniversary Alumni Highlight: Carla Williams
MPA 60th Anniversary Alumni Highlight: J. Allen Joines

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Nov 17
Nov 17