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G Public Affairs 

 

The Program

Apply Now for Fall Admission!

The Master's Program in Public Affairs is a two-year, 36-unit program that is completed in four semesters, including the Public Affairs internship. There are no classes held in the summer.

The Program prepares students for the following career paths:

  • Professional work in campaign strategy and management
  • Governmental relations and advocacy
  • Grassroots and community organizing
  • Strategic communications
  • Journalism

Program of Study

The 36-unit program of study includes the following four requirements:

  • Public Affairs Internship - A unique and key feature of the program is the Public Affairs Internship. The Internship is arranged, facilitated and directed by faculty along with an onsite supervisor. The internship takes place in the final fall semester of study and is served at a public affairs organization including political campaigns, advocacy agencies, community organizations, neighborhood associations, public/government offices, and other similar entities. 0 units.
  • Core Graduate Courses (see Courses  for details) - Students complete six core graduate courses (3 units each). Total of 18 units.
  • Elective Courses (see Courses for details) - Students complete five elective courses (3 units each) from a range of elective courses. Total of 15 units.
  • Master's Capstone Project (see Courses for details). 3 units.

Sample Program - Two-Year Master's Program

Fall Classes

Spring Classes
Year 1
  1. Proseminar in Applied American Politics
    (3-unit core course)
  2. Quantitative Methods in Public Affairs
    (3-unit core course)
  3. Writing for Public Affairs Professionals 
    (3-unit core course)
  1. Public Affairs and Democratic Theory 
    (3-unit core course)
  2. Organizing and Advocacy (3 units)
  3. Strategic Communications (3 units)
  4. Media and Politics (3 units)
  5. Campaign Management (3 units)
  6. Non-profits and Public Policy (3 units)
Year 2
  1. American Urban Public Policy (3 units)
  2. Campaigns and Elections (3 units)
  3. Mobilizing for Political and Legislative Action 
    (3 units)
  4. San Francisco Urban Politics (3 units)
  5. Intergovernmental Relations and Lobbying 
    (3 units)
  6. Issue Advocacy (3 units)
  1. Public Affairs Internship (0 units)
  2. Leadership for the Common Good
    (3-unit core course)
  3. Master's Capstone Project 
    (3-unit core course)