KU Lawrence Campus Summer Day

University of Kansas School of Public Affairs & Administration

The School of Public Affairs and Administration at the University of Kansas educates exceptional leaders for public service who provide solutions to the most pressing community challenges at all levels of governance. With roots in local government management and urban policy, we advance the public good, democratic values, and ethical public management practices.

Why KU's School of Public Affairs and Administration?

#1
In Local Government Management by US News and World Report since 1998
#11
In Public Management and Leadership by US News and World Report
#27
Top 25 overall best Public Affairs programs in the country by US News and World Report
100%
Placement rate within 6 months of graduation.

Degree Options

We offer a full range of degrees, from undergraduate to master's to doctoral, with certificates, minors, online and programs for working professionals

Bachelors

We offer bachelors degrees in public administration or law and society, and minors in each as well as a new minor in urban planning!
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Masters

Graduate options include Master of Public Administration with optional certifications and Master in Urban Planning.
Explore our graduate degree options
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Doctorate

Our Ph.D. program prepares researchers to enter academia or pursue careers that involve cutting edge and innovative research in public affairs, policy, planning, and management/governance.
Start your journey to a Ph.D.
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Graduates of the Emerging Leaders Academy

Professional Development Programs

Explore the professional development opportunities offered by the KU Public Management Center, the professional development arm of the School of Public Affairs and Administration.

Professional Development Programs at the KU Public Management Center
Centers

Faculty Research

Explore the impact that SPAA's faculty research is contributing to public service.

Faculty Research Highlights

Latest News

Fri, 04/25/2025

KU Graduate Students to Present Research on Recent City Issues on May 8 at the Cider Gallery

On May 8, graduate students in KU’s UBPL 763: Politics and Planning class will present research on recent Lawrence projects and issues at a drop-in event from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Cider Gallery (810 Pennsylvania St. Lawrence, KS). The class is part of KU's Urban Planning program, which is within the School of Public Affairs and Administration. It is celebrating 50 years of graduating Jayhawk Planners and 75 years of educating public servants, respectively.
Wed, 04/09/2025

The University of Kansas Retains No. 1 Position as a Leader in Local Government Management

KU School of Public Affairs and Administration is Premier Institution for Local Government Management in National Rankings
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Upcoming Events

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Alumni finish the Rock Chalk Chant at a conference in San Antonio, TX

What can I do with a SPAA degree?

What doors open for you with one of our degrees? Read about making a difference with a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. degree from our program.

Alumni Spotlights

Job & Internship Opportunities

Follow the link below to access a list of active internships and job opportunities that align with SPAA degrees!
Click here!