50 Most Innovative Public Service Schools in the U.S. 2015
In the United States, we have a unique interest in government and public policy, and thus a unique interest in public service degree programs. We churn out more lawyers per square mile than we can possibly employ, and many new professionals flock to the powerful, promising city of Washington, D.C. We keep up with daily news and keep tabs on government officials, and are often surprisingly educated on issues of the economy, healthcare, and social justice.
As a nation inarguably founded on the pursuit of an ethical, effective government while fleeing an oppressive one, it’s no surprise that the United States is home to a wealth of universities with dedicated public service schools. Whether they dub it Public Affairs, Public Policy, Political Science, Government, or something else, these schools have committed themselves to creating impressive programs. They invent creative opportunities for students and establish fellowships, seminars, study abroad programs, research institutes, collaborative initiatives, and much more. They do all this to brand themselves as a school worthy of the most innovative, entrepreneurial public service students – some of whom may one day end up in the upper echelons of the federal government.
The Thomas Jefferson Program in Public Policy was mentioned as one of the 50 Most Innovative Public Service Schools in the US.
"The College of William and Mary’s Thomas Jefferson Program in Public Policy traces its roots to the leadership and passion of this nation’s Founding Fathers. The competitive program only admits 25 students a year into it’s Master’s in Public Policy program, ensuring that the brightest and most ambitious students develop a close-knit community and close relationships with faculty. The public service school places 73rd on U.S. News’ list of best programs, and offers such innovative opportunities as the Friday Policy Dialogues, Policy Research Seminars, and an Alumni Mentoring Program. Bachelor’s degree students will also be happy to hear that the department encourages and provides many resources for undergraduate research".
