College of Urban and Public Affairs

Urban & Public Affairs Academics

The College of Urban and Public Affairs is home to four academic departments and two schools.  The College offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the broad disciplines of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Economics, Politics and Global Affairs, Public Administration, and Urban Studies & Planning.  With a focus on policy, governance, and public service, the college provides a rigorous academic environment where students engage in real-world problem-solving and develop the skills necessary to drive positive change in their communities. 

Departments & Schools

Justice Center

Criminology & Criminal Justice

Criminology & Criminal Justice explores the causes, prevention, and control of criminal behavior and the promotion of efficiency, effectiveness, and equity at all levels of the criminal justice system. Through this comprehensive program, students are equipped to tackle pressing societal issues with practical, real-world solutions.

World map with overlayed bar graph

Economics

Economics goes beyond mathematics, statistics, and big data to examine how economic factors shape our world. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students gain insight into how economic systems interact with key social issues and graduate prepared for rewarding careers in research, policy analysis, finance, and consulting.

World flags in the wind

Politics and Global Affairs

Politics and Global Affairs offers students a deep dive into political systems, global issues, and the forces shaping the world. With a focus on governance, international relations, and policy-making, the department prepares students for impactful careers in government, diplomacy, non-profits, and global organizations.

PSU Urban Center Building on 5th Street

Public Administration

Public Administration is focused on what it takes to build effective, innovative public institutions and on preparing students to lead and shape the future of public service. Students work across sectors to create collaborative solutions to public sector challenges, driving positive change in communities both locally and globally.

Oregon capitol building in Salem

Hatfield School of Government

The Mark O. Hatfield School of Government is an interdisciplinary school that focuses on governance and public service. In addition to research centers and institutes, it houses the academic departments of Politics and Global Affairs, and Public Administration.

streetcar

Urban Studies and Planning

The Nohad A. Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning prepares students to tackle the complex challenges communities face. From the air we breathe to the length of our commute, the Toulan School equips students with the knowledge and skill to create more sustainable and vibrant urban environments.

COLLEGEWIDE DEGREE PROGRAM

In addition to academic programs housed within our individual departments and schools, the college offers the Urban and Public Affairs bachelor’s degree. This undergraduate degree offers a unique blend of social science disciplines to explore the connections between policy, governance, community, and urban environments. In this program, students gain the analytical and practical tools to address pressing public issues and to become impactful leaders in government, non-profit sectors, and beyond. Learn more here. 

 

URBAN & PUBLIC AFFAIRS RESEARCH 

The College of Urban and Public Affairs is committed to engaged research that addresses real-world challenges and strengthens our communities. Our faculty and students collaborate on innovative projects that drive policy, inform practice, and create meaningful change. Visit our Research Page to see how we put knowledge into action and advance the university’s mission to serve the city.

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