University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public & International Affairs
About
We are a diverse community of faculty, staff, students, and alumni committed to making significant contributions to society through public service. As a part of the University of Pittsburgh, GSPIA is a leader in education, a pioneer in the research, and an engaged partner in our region and around the world. For more than 60 years, our legacy has inspired graduates to make public institutions better, advance the public interest, and realize a more equitable and inclusive society.
Introduction
Hone passions into purpose and impact
We are a diverse community of faculty, staff, students, and alumni committed to making significant contributions to society through public service. As a part of the University of Pittsburgh, GSPIA is a leader in education, a pioneer in the research, and an engaged partner in our region and around the world. For more than 60 years, our legacy has inspired graduates to make public institutions better, advance the public interest, and realize a more equitable and inclusive society.
Why Choose GSPIA?
GSPIA is one of the oldest, largest, and most comprehensive schools of public and international affairs in the United States. It is one of the few graduate schools that combines strong programs in domestic and international policy under one roof, giving you the opportunity to study fields as diverse as policy analysis, urban planning, international security, human rights, and environmental policy as part of the same degree.
As a GSPIA student, you will have the freedom to take classes in Pitt’s highly regarded departments of political science, economics, history, and sociology (among other disciplines), participate in the work of the University Center for Social and Urban Research, and pursue joint degrees with Pitt’s School of Law, Katz Graduate School of Business, Graduate School of Public Health, School of Social Work, and School of Information Science.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
GSPIA embraces the diversity of all members of our community, including those related to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disabilities, age, religion, political beliefs, socioeconomic status, geographic region, nationality, migrant/immigrant/refugee status, and veteran status. Our commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive society starts with unwavering support for freedom of expression and by promoting an environment where robust and civil debate thrives.
Our Commitment to Diversity
Diversity Strategic Plan
The school’s strategic plan for diversity, equity, and inclusion serves as an overarching guide across major functions and activities. This includes engaging on diversity issues with key stakeholders, including our Board of Visitors, employers, and our extensive alumni network. Priorities for implementation are set annually.
Inclusive Curriculum Plan
GSPIA’s inclusive curriculum plan aims to ensure a diverse, equitable, and inclusive school community where all can thrive. We believe in fostering world-class future leaders, recruiting diverse faculty, students, and staff, and furthering our standards for excellence in research, education, and engagement.
Diversity-focused Organizations
GSPIA's diversity-focused organizations are welcoming environments where work on diversity, social justice, equity, and inclusiveness lay the foundation for lasting change. These important initiatives promote a multicultural perspective and forge a positive community connection.
Our Mission
The mission of the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA) is to prepare students to make significant contributions to society through leadership in public service in government, nonprofit organizations, or the private sector. We accomplish this mission through quality teaching, rigorous research, and service to communities and constituencies—at the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct—domestically and around the world.
Rankings
One of the Nation's best
GSPIA is one of the top-ranked schools for public and international affairs in the country. Learn more about why students from around the globe make GSPIA their chosen destination.
- Top 15% of Public Affairs Schools
GSPIA ranked #39 overall among Public Affairs programs (U.S. News and World Report 2023 rankings for public affairs programs) - International /Global Policy No. 1 among public universities
GSPIA ranked #8 overall in the specialty rankings for International/Global Policy and Administration (U.S. News and World Report 2023 rankings for public affairs programs) - Urban Policy No. 17 among public universities
GSPIA ranked #27 overall in the specialty rankings for Urban Policy (U.S. News and World Report 2023 rankings for public affairs programs) - A top-ranked public research university
The University of Pittsburgh is ranked #20 among public institutions (U.S. News and World Report 2023 rankings for public schools) - Top 25 Local Government Management program
GSPIA ranked No. 21 in the specialty rankings for Local Government Management overall among public universities (U.S. News and World Report 2023 rankings for public schools) - Over 300 total students from more than 20 Countries
Approx. 350 total students (134 new students)
81% full time, 19% part-time - Class of 2020 Employment Outcomes
94% Employed or pursuing further study
Campus Features
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is one of the world’s most vibrant, cosmopolitan cities – and as more than 8,000 GSPIA alumni have already discovered; it’s an ideal place to study public and international affairs.
Public transportation on buses and subways is free with a Pitt student ID. It can also get you free or deeply discounted admission to local museums, art galleries, and theater shows!
- Most Livable City
Noted a Most Livable City by Forbes and The Economist. - 180 miles of trails
The Allegheny County Parks offer over 180 miles of trails throughout the nine parks. - #5 in the Best American Riverfronts
Downtown riverfronts have been named #5 in the Best American Riverfronts list by USA Today's 10 Best polls. - #1 among the hottest job markets in the U.S.
Last year, Glassdoor named Pittsburgh #1 among the hottest job markets in the U.S. - Cost of Living 13% Below National Average
The cost of living in Pittsburgh is 13% below the national average, according to Forbes. - Third among “America’s Top 25 Potential 15-Minute Cities"
A new report from moveBuddha ranks Pittsburgh third among “America’s Top 25 Potential 15-Minute Cities.” The 15-Minute City is defined as a place where a family’s daily and weekly needs are located within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.
