Master of Public Affairs in International Affairs in Austin United States | University of Texas at Austin

The Master of Public Affairs program stands as the pioneering graduate initiative that combines scholarly foundations with hands-on learning, equipping students to create tangible change from day one. The LBJ School's MPAff curriculum cultivates visionary leaders armed with the expertise to drive transformation across public institutions, corporations, and social sector organizations.
Our institution is dedicated to fostering leadership and innovative solutions that empower local, national, and global communities to tackle pressing policy issues in our interconnected world. Leveraging an internationally distinguished faculty, exceptional graduate scholars, an expansive alumni network, and the academic excellence of The University of Texas at Austin—a premier research institution—LBJ graduates possess unparalleled capabilities to influence public policy in the modern era.
The MPAff curriculum integrates theoretical instruction with analytical training, consistently complemented by real-world implementation opportunities. Prospective students must demonstrate proficiency in calculus and statistics through prior coursework or examination before beginning the quantitative core curriculum. A mandatory internship bridging the first and second years offers firsthand exposure to governmental, nonprofit, and advocacy operations. Participants may pursue a broad academic path or concentrate their final year studies within one of seven specialized policy domains, with options for full-time or part-time enrollment.
The Master of Public Affairs degree offers two completion pathways: a traditional two-year Austin-based residential program or an accelerated 15-month option featuring a final semester in Washington, D.C. Both tracks establish core competencies in economic, political, analytical, and managerial aspects of policy formation, preparing graduates to develop and implement impactful solutions for global betterment.