The School of Public Affairs prepares students to become contributing members of their local, regional, national and global communities through instruction, research and community outreach.

We approach public policy using a wider lens than other universities. In addition to the political science-based interpretation of public policy, we integrate other disciplines and fields that directly contribute to the management of the public interest.

We are able to adopt this approach because of our excellent faculty. Our professors have distinguished track records and share the common goal of producing graduates who go on to have successful careers in the private, public and nonprofit sectors

Upcoming Events

Nobel Peace Prize Forum
March 6-8, 2015, Radisson Blu Minneapolis
This forum is an annual dialogue event that inspires peacemaking and peacebuilding by bringing together Nobel Laureates, leaders and activists.

MN Heartland Economics Challenge
March 19, 2015 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Atwood Voyaguers Room
Over 100 students from across the state will come to compete in tests about microeconomics, macroeconomics, international economics and current events. If you are interested in volunteering at this event, please contact Cindy at cjfitzthum@stcloudstate.edu.

Summer & Fall Internship Fair
March 25, 2015 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Atwood Ballroom
This internship fair features organizations with summer internship opportunities for students.  Free for students to attend and no registration required.

MN State National Geographic Bee
March 27, 2015 Atwood and Ritsche Auditorium
More than 100 fourth- to eighth-graders from schools around the state will compete, answering a variety of world geography questions from a panel of judges. The winner will represent Minnesota at the National Geographic Bee in Washington, D.C.

Travel Career Day
April 7, 2015 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Atwood Alumni Room
This annual event brings insight of travel and tourism professionals to campus. Speakers from some of Minnesota's largest and most respected travel-related companies will discuss career opportunities in the travel industry.

Student Research Colloquium
April 21, 2015 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Atwood
Gain experience and knowledge in your field of study. The Student Research Colloquium promotes research, scholarship and creative works in collaboration with faculty as a vital component of higher education. Students can further their understanding of their field of study, gain experience researching and presenting, receive academic recognition and add an excellent complement to their resume. All students who would like to present their research or creative works at the colloquium must register here.

Spring Community Engagement Fair
April 23, 2015 9-11 a.m. Atwood Ballroom
Students will showcase their service learning, internship or community project.