GSPIA is a professional school with a diverse, cosmopolitan community of faculty, staff, students and alumni. Believing in their ability to make the world a better place, GSPIA hones the passion of its students into purposeful direction and action. As part of the University of Pittsburgh, they are a leader in education, a pioneer in research and a partner in regional development—as well as one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States.
Throughout its 50-year history, GSPIA has created a legacy that inspires graduates to make public institutions better, create a higher quality of government and promote social responsibility throughout the world.
Mission
The mission of the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA) is to prepare students to make significant contributions to society through careers as managers, policy analysts and researchers in government, nonprofit organizations/NGOs and universities throughout the world. The faculty and staff of the School are dedicated to accomplishing this mission through quality teaching and innovative research on salient issues in management, governance, public policy, and international affairs with an emphasis on: 1) the management of public and nonprofit agencies; 2) the governance and development of metropolitan regions; 3) the national and global challenges related to international political economy, international development, international security, human security and intelligence.
The mission of GSPIA stresses the importance of democratic responsibilities and personal integrity in the management of human affairs as well as the professional qualifications required for managing constructive change. Students and faculty alike are expected to: 1) use critical thinking and problem-solving skills in addressing “local to global” public policy issues; 2) demonstrate the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct; and 3) develop partnerships with those who share their mission within the University of Pittsburgh, around the country and throughout the world.
