A Big Rise in the Rankings

Suffolk University’s Master of Public Administration program (MPA) has surged into the top 100 public affairs programs in the nation, according to the latest U.S. News and World Report rankings.

The Sawyer Business School MPA landed at No. 95 on the most recent U.S. News list of best Public Affairs programs. That’s a jump of 22 spots over the past year, and a leap of 63 spots in five years. U.S. News based its rankings on surveys of deans, directors, and department chairs representing 285 master’s programs in public affairs and administration throughout the nation.

Suffolk’s MPA focuses on preparing the next generation of top public service leaders by bridging the gap between academics and practice. It offers a career-advancing educational experience by leveraging experienced faculty, a practical approach to learning, and deep community partnerships. With an equal emphasis on public and nonprofit management, the program equips Suffolk students with the skills, values, and creativity they need to lead and manage in today’s complex environment, while building a vast network of fellow public service professionals, not only in Boston but around the world.

“The Sawyer Master of Public Administration program remains true to Suffolk’s deep history of access,” said Aimee Williamson, chair and associate professor in Suffolk’s Institute for Public Service, which houses the MPA program. “We are tapping into community partnerships to provide access and opportunities, as we fulfill our promise of helping to prepare the next generation of top public service leaders in the Commonwealth and beyond.”

The rise in the rankings also reflects a growing recognition of the Institute for Public Service’s leadership role in public affairs through its sponsorship of research-based journals, faculty publication of books and peer-reviewed articles, and the hosting of international conferences.

“We are proud that the Institute for Public Service and the MPA degree program have been recognized for excellence,” said Dr. Amy Zeng, dean of the Sawyer Business School. “The significant improvement in rankings reflects the extraordinary dedication and effective hard work of the faculty and staff over the past few years.”

Williamson also credited students and alumni for the climb in the rankings. “They inspire us always to do better and continue to find new ways to connect with our community and advance the practice of public and nonprofit management,” she said.

The MPA was recently reaccredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA).

Learn more about the Master of Public Administration and the Institute for Public Service.