LBJ School | The University of Texas at Austin

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Know-How to Change the World
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Our Degree Programs

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Bachelor of Public Affairs

A degree that prepares graduates with skills in leadership, policy analysis and organizational management for a career in public service at every level, from city hall to Capitol Hill

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Master of Public Affairs (MPAff)

The first graduate public affairs program to blend academic theory with practical experience—preparing students to make an immediate impact in the world

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Master of Global Policy Studies (MGPS)

A degree program designed for the globalized world, offering an interdisciplinary and practical command of international policymaking

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Master of National Security (MNS)

A degree that equips students with analytical skills and strategies to tackle today’s most urgent challenges, emphasizing emerging tech, data-driven decisions and innovative policy solutions for careers in both public and private sectors

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Executive Master of Public Leadership (EMPL)

A 12-month program preparing nonprofit and public professionals for senior leadership with substantial in-person coursework, interaction with high-performing leaders and practical simulations for real world readiness

DC Concentration (MPAff/MGPS)

Accelerated DC Program (MPAff/MGPS)

An immersive 15-month course of accelerated study and work in Washington DC for careers in domestic and international federal policymaking

PhD in Public Policy

Ph.D. in Public Policy (Ph.D.)

A flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum–emphasizing strong faculty mentorship alongside rigorous analytical and professional training–intended to bridge the gap between academic scholarship and real-world policy impact

 

Executive and Professional Training

Events

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Event Status
Scheduled
Date and time: Wednesday September 30, 2026, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Location:Virtual via Zoom
The LBJ School's Executive Master of Public Leadership prepares nonprofit and public professionals for senior leadership.
OSAA Admission
Event Status
Scheduled
Date and time: Thursday October 8, 2026, 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Location:Virtual via Zoom
Join the LBJ School's Office of Student Affairs and Admissions to learn more about our graduate programs and how you can apply today!
Photo of the Texas Capitol building
Event Status
Scheduled
Date and time: Wednesday October 14, 2026, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Location:Virtual via Zoom
The LBJ School's Executive Master of Public Leadership prepares nonprofit and public professionals for senior leadership.

News & Research

Group photo of Carbon Capture event attendees

University of Texas at Austin & Lamar University Workshop on Carbon Management and Community Impacts in the Gulf Region

May 7, 2025
A workshop on April 14, 2025 was held at Lamar University to address the rapid expansion of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) projects in the Gulf region.
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Report from UT's LBJ School of Public Affairs Highlights Critical Reserve Needs for Emergency Services Districts

May 7, 2025
A new report from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin finds that Texas Emergency Services Districts (ESDs) should consider maintaining significantly higher financial reserves to protect emergency services from the growing threats of extreme weather, economic volatility and political change.
EMPL Student, Melissa Drexler, graduation photo

EMPL Graduate Blends Service and Lifelong Learning to Lead with Purpose

May 1, 2025
Education has always been more than a personal pursuit for Melissa Drexler (EMPL ’25). It’s a family legacy, a professional calling and a pathway to meaningful public service.