Welcome to GPS, a genuine global community dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through teaching, research, and engagement.

The School is internationally recognized for its expertise on the Pacific—the Americas and Asia—and we seek to be the home of students, alumni, scholars, and leaders from around the world who value tackling global and Pacific challenges with meticulous analysis and a passion for problem-solving. Leveraging our West Coast location and UC San Diego’s renowned programs in science and technology, GPS develops new analytic tools with practical applications, while rigorously training the next generation of global leaders. We embed in our curriculum advanced methods to design, test, evaluate and refine solutions for global societies in the 21st century, teach about the great questions facing the world and prepare our students to identify which results are more likely to work. Our alumni have assumed positions of leadership in businesses, governments, and nonprofits in more than 80 countries across the globe.

Who We Are

We are a truly global society of faculty, staff, students and community partners dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through education and research — all with an eye on building a Pacific community. The school is anchored in the reputation and successes of UC San Diego and the University of California system. We are guided by individuals who strive to maintain a climate of fairness, cooperation, and professionalism that is embodied in our ethical principles. Furthermore, we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential ingredients of academic excellence.

Faculty

Students have unmatched access to internationally renowned faculty who integrate rigorous scholarship with an enthusiasm for teaching and active engagement in and out of the classroom. They are leaders in research ranging from the resolution of civil wars to implications of the changing pattern of international trade; from domestic politics to finance and business in Pacific countries; and from the foreign policy of China to the evaluation of anti-poverty, public health and environmental programs in developing economies. Learn more about the range and depth of their vast research interests today.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Equity, diversity, and inclusion are defining features of the school, UC San Diego and the entire University of California system. They are critical elements to a productive and innovate environment, and we embrace them all as sources of strength. Our differences — of race, nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, socioeconomic status, abilities, experience and more — enhance our ability to achieve our core mission of public service, teaching, and research. We welcome faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and want everyone to feel respected and valued. Additionally, UC San Diego has many resources that support the recruitment and retention of historically underserved populations, deepen understanding and challenge misconceptions surrounding diversity, and develop proactive leaders who advocate for inclusion.

Students Devoted to Inclusion

Meet two newly formed student groups at the school devoted to inclusion. In addition, led by the Pacific International Affairs Student Organization (PIASO), there are several other regionally and professionally focused student groups that enrich the campus climate.

QuIRPS

The mission of QuIRPS is to foster community among queer and non-queer members of the School and raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people around the world, as well as professional development for queer students and allies.

Women Going Global

The mission of Women Going Global is to increase awareness and the development of women in future leadership roles within international professional and academic realms. The group offers an opportunity for students, faculty, staff and the greater San Diego community to exchange in discourse that promotes women’s issues on a global level. You are welcome to contact us directly by phone (858-534-5914) or email (gps-apply@ucsd.edu)