The School of Public Affairs at American University has a storied legacy that informs our values and approach.
In 1934, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt began implementing New Deal programs that sought to increase “practical contacts between the collegiate and educational world, and the operations of government.” He believed that the collaboration of academia and public service would result in better decision-making, not only for Depression-era American, but also for future generations to come. From FDR’s vision, American University’s School of Public Affairs was born.
Over the last 80+ years, SPA has cultivated a culture of excellence. Our personalized teaching and experiential education transform the student experience. We empower those who seek knowledge to conduct and produce research. And we promote engagement to build a bridge between academic thought and policy planning - inspiring change in the world.
Today, with 1,800 current students and 23,000+ alumni, SPA continues to tackle complex issues with thoughtful research that educates, informs, and promotes change across a multitude of fields.
Miguel Díaz-Canel, a 57-year-old engineer and Communist Party loyalist, is expected to succeed Raúl Castro as president of Cuba. Will change bring prosperity or instability to the Cuban people?
Pakistan had only eight new diagnoses of polio in 2017. The virus’ days look numbered – but health workers have their work cut out for them to eradicate the devastating disease once and for all.
Taryn Morrissey, American University School of Public Affairs
Even though child care costs more than college tuition in many states, college affordability seems to get more attention. Here’s why that needs to change.
Decades ago, the CIA created a secret department dedicated to spreading anti-communist propaganda around the globe. A scholar explains how it is comparable to Russian meddling through social media.
Jan Leighley, American University School of Public Affairs and Jennifer Oser, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
Citizen activists can influence the policy positions of their elected representatives. Their activism might well counter the advantages of the wealthy in America.
After a baffling, silent attack on US Embassy staff in Havana, the Trump administration is using concern over its diplomats’ health as an excuse to reverse Obama’s rapprochement with Cuba.
Capri Cafaro, American University School of Public Affairs
As states begin to plan budgets, the future of Obamacare is still undecided. A former Ohio state senator explains how budget directors are bracing for billions of dollars in shortfalls.
Jon Gould, American University School of Public Affairs
GOP members of the Senate Judiciary Committee have pushed Gorsuch’s nomination onto the full Senate. Both the Republicans and Democrats are getting ready for a fight.
Elizabeth Suhay, American University School of Public Affairs
Scientists are concerned that politics will trump evidence in the new administration. A researcher of political psychology explains why these worries matter far beyond questions of science.
Many families move over the course of their children’s lifetimes for a multitude of reasons. But what is the impact on the education of children when their families move?