Why the LBJ School?
The Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs is one of the leading professional public policy programs in the country. Through superior academic scholarship, research, and dialogue, the School builds upon the vision of its founder and namesake, President Lyndon Baines Johnson, who committed his life to the progressive ideal of public service. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration, the School currently ranks among the top Public Affairs School by U.S. News and World Report's most recent rankings.With all it has going for it—its student, faculty, affiliation with the University of Texas at Austin—there are a number of reasons why you should apply to the LBJ School. . .
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Financial Support
With one of the most affordable tuition and fee structures among comparable public policy schools, the LBJ School of Public Affairs offers students a tremendous return on their educational investment. The School awards more than $1 million each year in fellowship commitments to its entering classes to help defray expenses and allow students to concentrate on their academic work. In addition, the University of Texas offers a variety of need-based financial aid packages. (Read More)
Faculty
The LBJ School is extremely proud of its distinguished faculty of internationally recognized scholars and experienced practitioners who are committed to education and informing public policy through research. Its educators represent a broad variety of academic disciplines and professional experience—ranging from political science and economics to engineering and community planning—to provide a comprehensive curriculum that includes public management, nonprofit administration, and quantitative analysis. Faculty members often invite students to work as research or teaching assistants on a wide range of public policy issues. (Read More)
Curriculum
The LBJ School has a tradition of attracting smart, talented, and civically committed students who go on to create programs and policies that change the world for millions around the globe.
The School offers a Master of Public Affairs program in public policy analysis and administration that prepares graduates to assume leadership positions in government, business, and non-profit organizations. In addition, eight master's-level dual degree programs blend public affairs study with specialized professions or area studies and are structured so that students can earn the Master of Public Affairs degree and a second degree in less time than it would take to earn them separately. Dual degree programs currently exist in Asian Studies and Public Affairs, Business and Public Affairs, Communication and Public Affairs, Engineering and Public Affairs, Latin American Studies and Public Affairs, Law and Public Affairs, Middle Eastern Studies and Public Affairs, and Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies and Public Affairs.
A practical application sequence permits students to conduct policy research projects for some of the country's largest policy firms and governmental agencies, including the Congressional Research Service, MAXIMUS Consulting, General Accountability Office and many others. A summer internship requirement gives students a rich and profound understanding of the intricacies of public problem solving, policymaking and management.
The Doctorate in Public Policy program provides an academic/research orientation, and is designed to prepare the next generation of scholars and academicians to take on public policy issues. Combined, the master's and doctoral degree programs provide a synergistic environment that encourages thoughtful analysis and discussion about urgent public issues. (Read More)
The LBJ Experience
The LBJ experience would not be complete if it existed solely within the confines of the classroom. The student body, which numbers around 250 members, places significant value on the collegial environment that fosters spirited and open discussion of contemporary policy issues at home and abroad. The School boasts 15 student-led organizations. As part of a close-knit group of individuals with diverse experiences and worldviews, LBJ students enjoy contributing to a vibrant learning community. With almost equal enthusiasm they actively pursue the cultural and recreational opportunities available on the University of Texas campus and in the city of Austin.
Often cited as one of the nation's bests cities for living, learning and working, Austin is home to five colleges and universities with a combined population of over 80,000 students. Located among the rolling hills and lakes of Central Texas, Austin is the seat of state government and best known for its abundance of live music venues and the year-round opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities. (Read More)
Research Programs and Centers
The School is home to more than eight research centers and programs, many of which have a world-class reputation for influencing international and domestic policymaking on topics ranging from health and social well-being to the effects of global science and technology on public policy. Not only do these centers provide substantial contributions to the overall educational program, but students attain a depth of knowledge and professional linkages that will serve them throughout their careers. (Read More)
The Value of Our Alumni
Alumni pursue careers across the four corners of the world, and are always eager to initiate networking and collaborative opportunities with their fellow alums of all generations. Alumni rely on the relationships they have established with the LBJ School throughout their careers. The School makes resources available through its web site so alumni can find out what local chapters are up to, locate colleagues and former classmates, participate in school-sponsored events, and enjoy guest speakers either on campus or online. (Read More)
Job Placement
The Office of Student Affairs and Programs maintains strong relationships and coordinates recruiting visits with a broad network of employers who are consistently interested in hiring public LBJ School graduates. The career placement staff provides career counseling, resume building, professional development workshops, and specialized training sessions to help students define their interests and efficiently pursue their career objectives. (Read More)
