Traditions to Transformation

Introducing the School of Public and International Affairs

Cover of brochureSPIA has a long history at the University of Pittsburgh, but our story is still evolving. Traditions to Transformation captures who we are today, the values that guide our work, and the community shaping the next chapter of public and international affairs.

We’ve been shaping leaders since 1958. That history matters. But what makes this moment different is how we share the story. In these pages, you’ll find both the official narrative and the real-talk perspective — tradition and transformation, side by side. You’ll also hear directly from our community, in their own words, reflections that ground our transformation in lived experience. Because our impact isn’t just about where we’ve been. It’s about how we’re constantly reimagining what’s possible.

 

The sections below explore the themes from Traditions to Transformation in two perspectives: SPIA Official, which reflects our institutional mission and impact, and SPIA Real Talk, which shares how students experience those ideas in practice.

Who We Are page

WHO WE ARE


Official:

As a top-ranked institution for public and international affairs, the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) equips future leaders with the knowledge, skills, and experience to drive meaningful change. Our programs bridge academic excellence with real-world impact, preparing graduates for public service across sectors and around the globe.


Real Talk:

This is where passion meets purpose—and where purpose turns into action. SPIA helps students build the expertise, network, and confidence to lead. It’s not about having it all figured out on day one. We help students discover their path and give them the tools to walk it.

Take a look inside

Official:

Our interdisciplinary curriculum provides a foundation in public policy, public administration, international affairs, and international development, preparing students to tackle society’s greatest challenges.
 

SPIA Offers:


• Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy 
• Master of Public Administration 
• Master of Public and International Affairs 
• Master of International Development 
• Master of Public Policy and Management (mid-career) 
• Undergraduate Minors in Public Policy & Global Policy 
• Undergraduate and Graduate Certificate Programs


Real Talk: 

From climate justice to city budgets, from nonprofit strategy to international diplomacy—SPIA programs help students develop the tools and perspective to lead with purpose. Even those who arrive with broad interests leave with a focus and clear sense of direction.

What We Teach page spread

Official:

SPIA faculty are nationally and internationally recognized researchers, advisors, and thought leaders. They bring real-world experience and deep knowledge into the classroom, and a commitment to mentorship that extends far beyond it.  

Real Talk:

This is a place where faculty don’t just teach. They’ve served in governments, advised international bodies, and led organizations. And still, they’ll stay after class to help students weigh internship offers or send that one email that opens a door. 

Who Teaches Here page spead

Official:

We bring together a globally minded, impact-driven community. Students come from across the U.S. and around the world, sharing a common goal: to make a difference.  

Real Talk: 

Every student brings a different story. What unites them is a shared drive to do good. The SPIA community includes first-gen college students, Fulbright scholars, veterans and future city managers to name a few. It’s a place where students support each other and stay connected long after graduation.  

Who Students Learn With page spread

Official:

Our graduates launch impactful careers in areas like government, nonprofit leadership, international organizations, and policy research. SPIA’s career and professional development team provides individualized support, helping students secure internships and fulltime roles that align with their goals.  

Real Talk: 

Whether it’s a local mayor’s office, Capitol Hill, or the UN, SPIA grads land where they want to be and are equipped to make a difference when they get there. A strong alumni network keeps the door open for those who follow.  

Where Grads Go Next page spread

Official: 

Located in one of America’s most livable cities, SPIA offers students the best of both worlds: a welcoming community known for its civic spirit and a hub of innovation with global influence. Pittsburgh’s government, nonprofit, and policy networks—alongside world-class healthcare, education and cultural institutions—give students countless opportunities to apply their learning in meaningful ways.  

Real Talk:

Pittsburgh is more than just a backdrop. It’s affordable, dynamic, and deeply engaged in the issues SPIA cares about. And while Pitt offers the resources of a large university, SPIA provides a closeknit home base.  

Pittsburgh page spread

This is where the numbers speak for themselves. SPIA graduates are working across sectors and across continents— doing the kind of work that changes communities, policies, and futures.  

Outcomes That Matter page spread

 

See SPIA in Action

Get a closer look at SPIA through short videos from campus. Click the photos below to see our corner of campus, graduation day celebrations with faculty, and moments from student life.

Yellow sculpture near Posvar Hall

▶ Watch the Short! Our corner of campus begins at Light Up, the iconic yellow sculpture between Posvar Hall and Hillman Library.
SPIA Faculty and graduating students at Commencement

▶ Watch the Short! At SPIA, faculty show up for the moments that matter. Graduation day is one of those moments.
SPIA students in a photo booth at the end of year event.

▶ Watch the Short! SPIA students build friendships and networks that last far beyond graduation.