A degree designed to help you do good in the world.
Public Affairs focuses on solving
real-life public challenges.
Public Affairs professionals, committed to improving the functions of the government, uphold democracy's core tenet: pursuing the common good.
Through the Bachelor of Public Affairs program, students delve into policy analysis, public administration, and community development, understanding the processes of policy formulation, implementation and evaluation. Equipped with robust communication and critical thinking skills, graduates are ready for impactful roles across government agencies, nonprofits and the private sector.
They embark on careers dedicated to effecting positive societal change and championing the greater good across health policy, our environment, national security, foreign affairs and more.
You might like a career in Public Affairs if you enjoy:
- Problem-solving
- Working toward a common goal
- Leading people
"LBJ ignited my passion for public service and international development."
- Wuthikah Pun, LBJ Public Service Weekend Participant
Connect With Us
Office of Student Affairs and Admissions
Location
SRH 3.104
Phone
512-471-4292
The Standard in Excellence
UT Austin named "New Ivy League" on Forbes list (2024)
UT Austin #9 among national public universities (USNWR)
Nationally ranked among public affairs schools (USNWR)
#1 public affairs school in Texas and the Southwest (USNWR)
Skills and Courses
Learn to Lead, Forge Your Future
Discover how our curriculum equips students with the essential knowledge and skills to immediately enter careers in public affairs. Our multidisciplinary coursework integrates principles from policy analysis, data analytics, communication and organizational management, preparing students for effective policy leadership.
With a focus on career readiness and real-world impact, students are prepared to excel in the world of public affairs.
Student Success at LBJ
Lead Boldly: Your Journey Starts Here
Explore the vibrant and collaborative student community at the LBJ School. Our environment is designed to foster connections and support your academic journey through First-Year Interest Groups (FIGs) to help build a sense of community; personalized 1:1 and group advising sessions to ensure students receive comprehensive guidance on their academic path; and career-building workshops to prepare you to hit the ground running. In addition, students have several chances to engage global thought leaders, attend networking opportunities and affinity-based engagements, and access robust onboarding experiences and mentorship programs to learn more about opportunities at the LBJ School and across the Forty Acres.
Explore Careers in Policy
The LBJ Bachelor of Public Affairs degree is designed to prepare you for an impactful career in public affairs.
LBJ graduates have the skills to be competitive in today’s job market.
Hands-on learning and policy simulations coupled with a public Ivy classroom education prepare graduates to work in all levels of government and other organizations that provide vital services to the public.
With a Public Affairs degree, you might work in healthcare, education, national security, energy and environmental policy, international affairs, housing and more.
Career Outcomes
Employer Examples
- Federal agencies
- US Congress
- Texas Legislature
- State Agencies
- Academia
- City and State Government
- Nonprofits
- Think Tanks
- Corporate Social Impact
Career Examples
- Government Relations Specialist
- Budget Analyst
- Management Analyst
- Political Research Analyst
- Sustainability & Energy Analyst
- Legislative Affairs Analyst
- Public Affairs Representative
- Policy Assistant
- Civil Rights Paralegal
UT named a college where you’re most likely to have a return on investment
- Wall Street Journal, 2024
Ready to Apply?
Know-how to change the world. The LBJ School will accept applications for our first cohort in the Fall 2025 semester.
Applications open August 1st