CPS Building - Students

Why Rutgers SPAA

An Institution of the World

As Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” In a world marked by political polarization, diverse values, global challenges, and rapid technological advancements, the issues facing our society and communities have become increasingly complex, interdisciplinary, and ever-evolving. These challenges demand immediate and thoughtful action. They call for public leaders equipped to navigate and collaborate across government, nonprofit, and private sectors. They require knowledge and solutions grounded in scientific evidence, sound judgment, and cutting-edge technology.

At SPAA, we are the answer. As a premier hub for public service education, we serve as a cradle for developing leaders dedicated to the public good and a catalyst for ideas that drive meaningful social change. SPAA prepares students and professionals from diverse backgrounds – locally and globally – to pursue successful careers that serve the public interest and strengthen communities.

World-Wide Reputation

 

 

World-Class Education

  • Global Accreditation: Accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) for over 35 years
  • Regional Prominence: Best public affairs program in the tri-state area
  • Engagement Opportunities: Ample and structured experiential learning and internships
  • Flexible Delivery: In-person, synchronous online, and asynchronous online options
  • Affordability: One of the most affordable graduate programs of its kind with numerous funding options

 

World-Renowned Faculty

  • Top Recognition: Eight faculty members (including three emeritus) have been elected as NAPA Fellows – the U.S. National Academy of Public Administration, an organization chartered by Congress to advance government practice through studies and projects held to the highest standards
  • Award-Winning: Faculty have won major awards such as ASPA’s Dwight Waldo Award, APSA’s John Gaus Award, PMRA's Frederickson Award, NASPAA’s William Duncombe Excellence in Doctoral Education Award, IRSPM's Lifetime Achievement Award, and ABFM's Paul Posner Pracademic Award
  • Journal Editorships: Faculty members serve as editors or editorial board members in premier professional journals
  • Professional Leadership: All faculty members hold leadership roles in major professional associations

 

 

World-Shaping Research

  • Influential Journals: SPAA sponsors three academic journals including Public Performance & Management Review, International Public Management Journal, and Journal of Public Management & Social Policy
  • Impactful Labs: The New Jersey State Policy Lab assists the State of New Jersey and its many communities in the design, implementation, and evaluation of state policies and programs
  • Exciting Centers: Activities by centers in areas such as Health Equity and Community Engagement, Nonprofit Leadership and Development, Transparency and Governance, Experimental and Behavioral Public Administration, Anti-Corruption, and Applied Appreciative Inquiry
  • Prominent Speakers: Frequently hosting conversations with renowned scholars, political leaders, and public and nonprofit managers

 

 

World-Beating Culture and Life

  • Diversity and Inclusion: Rutgers-Newark is highly ranked in the Northeast for the diversity of its students and faculty in the Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings
  • Engaged Communities: One of 119 U.S. colleges and universities to receive the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching’s Community Engagement Classification
  • A Vibrant Campus: The Newark campus is a haven, and life at RU-N is vibrant and connected
  • A Rejuvenating City: The biggest city in the state of New Jersey is reshaping itself into a thriving urban center
  • Proximity to the World Center of Arts, Culture, Fashion, and Entertainment: We are 20 minutes away from New York City