Urban & Public Affairs Academics

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Urban & Public Affairs B.S./B.A. degree is an undergraduate interdisciplinary program designed for students interested in customizing their education to learn analytical and practical tools to address pressing public issues facing our communities today.