Master International Affairs and Global Solutions with UAlbany’s Rockefeller College
Source: SUNY Albany’s Rockefeller College of Public Affairs

Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy at the University at Albany (SUNY) is a national leader in public affairs education.

Based in New York State’s capital city, Rockefeller College ranks in the top 10 percent in US News & World Report’s Best Public Affairs Schools 2019 and has several specializations ranked among the best in the nation.

Rockefeller College ranks 5th for Information Technology and Management, 10th for Nonprofit Management, 14th for Public Finance and Budgeting and 15th for Public Management and Leadership in the US News & World Report 2019.

With an array of impressive accomplishments, it’s clear that this college equips students with the skills and expertise they need to tackle global challenges in today’s ever-changing world.

Rockefeller’s Academic Advantage 

At Rockefeller College, there are two core professional master degree programs for students interested in public affairs and international development.


The first is the Master of International Affairs (MIA). With a multidisciplinary approach to both teaching and learning, this degree is perfect for individuals who wish to excel in the public, private and non-profit sectors in countries across the globe.

By working with industry experts and a dynamic curriculum that consists of policy analysis, economics, quantitative methods and a broad educational foundation of  international relations theory, this MIA program provides you a world of opportunity as you enhance your skills and passion for international affairs. Additionally, the MIA has a unique teaching and learning component — synchronous distance learning. Through web and video conferencing, students can join class taking place on campus from anywhere in the world. This technology benefits students in their need to effectively interact electronically with stakeholders around the globe but also allows them to complete courses while not physically on campus, whether at their internship or as a working professional.

The second key program is the Master of Public Administration (MPA). Designed to develop managers, leaders and advanced analysts, this degree is ideal for anyone who wants to begin or advance their career within governmental and public service platforms.

Through a comprehensive academic framework that emphasizes the development of technical and managerial skills, while also addressing administrative and policy problems in local, state, national and global communities, you’ll benefit from the Rockefeller advantage and the College’s renowned faculty experts.

The two programs keep their syllabi and theories relevant to contemporary shifting concepts. That’s why both options grant mid-career professionals as well as pre-service students success in today’s public affairs, international development, and public finance sectors.

Industry Insights and Consistent Career Support

For every aspiring international affairs or public service professional, Rockefeller recognizes the need to refine your industry experience as fast as possible, so you can test your knowledge out in the field.

Source: SUNY Albany’s Rockefeller College of Public Affairs

Thanks to the College’s consistent career support, content-rich courses and incredible internship opportunities, Rockefeller’s Classes of ’15 and ‘16 employment statistics showed that within nine months of graduation, 100 percent of job-hunting graduates had secured a full-time position within their desired field. On average over the last five years, this placement rate has held steady at 98 percent.

Unlike other public affairs educators, Rockefeller ensures that every student feels reassured and career-ready before graduating.

Through a long list of professional links, global alumni network and the Handshake job-search platform, you will find an internship or job that fits perfectly with your personal and professional aspirations.

What’s great about furthering your education at Rockefeller is that you have the freedom to find paid internships and occupational training schemes, plus you’ll be supported every step of the way by a dedicated Office of Career Development.

As MPA graduate Joseph Martin states, “My Rockefeller career director worked tirelessly to identify opportunities for me. I would not be in my current career without this personalized mentoring.”

A Location like No Other

Apart from studying at one of the top public affairs schools in the country, you’ll be learning in one of the best capital cities in the world!

Situated in the heart of state government, you’ll be immersed within a cultural hub full of potential job prospects. You’ll also live nearby the College’s many partners, including governmental organizations, globally-known NGOs and distinguished private companies.

While learning at Rockefeller, you can strategize your time by attending networking events. By exposing your professional portfolio to employers and demonstrating your passion for public and/or international affairs, the opportunity for a permanent job offer after graduation is substantial.

Just a short drive or train ride away from several major northeast cities, the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy is on UAlbany’s vibrant downtown campus.  Just one mile from the New York State Capitol and the Empire State Plaza, your spare time will be occupied by discovering the city’s classic attractions and enjoying local hotspots.

For a virtual tour of the campus, click here!

Where Affordability Meets Value

Along with a superb, cost-effective location comes a range of exclusive programs and desirable internship openings, in addition to Rockefeller’s affordable tuition rate.

Source: SUNY Albany’s Rockefeller College of Public Affairs

Kiplinger’s Personal Finance names the School among its best value in US colleges – you’ll receive a first-class education for a fraction of the cost of a comparable private institution. The college holds student welfare in incredibly high regard, urging you to pursue your ambition in international and public affairs without financial constraints.

Rockefeller also caters to other aspects of your study experience, providing university-level intensive language training for international students looking to enhance their communication skills.

And, if you have little or no professional experience in the international or public affairs sector but are keen to get involved, the College will provide you with a tailored education that allows you to develop and kickstart your career.

The MIA and MPA programs aren’t just for mid-career professionals;  the guidance and motivation from Rockefeller will get you where you need to be no matter your post college station. That’s why so many graduates ace their interviews and race ahead in the ever-changing realm of international affairs and public policy.

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