Urban & Public Affairs, MA

Join the Bay Area's dynamic culture of grassroots organizing and advocacy. Develop community-driven public policy for more equitable cities and regions. In rigorous seminars and hands-on experiences, prepare for leadership roles in community organizing, public service, and political advocacy.

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What Can You Do With a Master’s in Urban & Public Affairs?

Combine classes in urban studies, public policy, politics, and sociology with hands-on experience in community-based research, policy design, and policy analysis. You will be trained to formulate policy and initiatives for more vibrant and just communities.

Internships

You’ll gain hands-on experience and build a network of professional contacts.

Internships

Career Opportunities

Work in government advocacy, nonprofit administration, policy writing, campaign strategy and management, and grassroots and community organizing.

Alumni & Careers

Urban & Public Affairs students walking in San Francisco.

Distinguished Faculty

You’ll learn from both academics and professionals in the field.

Faculty

Build Your Network

Connect to established professionals through career seminars, thesis committees, and hands-on work.

Develop the Urban & Public Affairs Skills to Create Meaningful Change

Maria Membrila '23 exemplifies how dedication, education, and mentorship can transform a career.

Meet Maria '23

Maria Membrila holding flowers after graduating.

What is Urban & Public Affairs?

Study Urban & Public Affairs in the heart of San Francisco, a living laboratory for policy, planning, and social impact
Explore how cities function through governance, economics, urban systems, and social equity
Apply data and policy frameworks to understand and improve urban environments
Examine the relationship between public institutions, communities, and the built environment
Develop a holistic perspective on shaping sustainable, inclusive, and resilient cities
Engage with real-world urban issues through a systems-level, solutions-oriented lens

Transcript

Study Public Policy-Making in the Unique Urban Setting of the San Francisco Bay Area

Study urban and public policy in San Francisco, a dynamic center for innovative breakthroughs in housing, transportation, environmental justice, organizing and political management. Let the San Francisco Bay Area be your classroom.

Program Overview

Financing Your Education

Urban & Public Affairs student in front of a building.

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