What are some of your school's core values and how do they come across in the courses and programs that you offer?
The Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy values civic engagement, exploration, integrity, and inclusion. The coursework and programs at Rockefeller College prioritize the student experience and the public good through community and global engagement, open expression and discourse, and sustaining an integrated culture of curiosity and excellence in research, teaching, and learning across disciplines. An interdisciplinary and diverse community, Rockefeller College equips students, leaders, and the broader public with the knowledge, skills, and tools required to craft innovative, inclusive solutions to pressing civic and social issues.
What types of programs do you offer?
Talented students come to Rockefeller College for the knowledge and tools to make a difference in the world. Offering undergraduate, master's and doctoral level degree programs in public administration, public policy, political science, criminal justice, and international affairs, as well as graduate certificate programs, we pride ourselves on preparing dynamic leaders who will shape the public policies of the future.
U.S. News & World Report ranks the MPA program at Rockefeller College 26th in the country out of 271 public affairs programs. Within the field of public affairs, Rockefeller is ranked in the following specialties:
* 5th in Information and Technology Management
* 7th in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
* 17th in Public Management and Leadership
* 18th in Local Government Management
* 21st in Nonprofit Management
* 31st in Public Policy Analysis
How are you helping to prepare students for careers in public service?
Through the MPA and undergraduate programs, Rockefeller College prepares students to excel as policy analysts, government administrators, as well as strategic leaders in areas such as information technology or finance of public and nonprofit institutions. Within public policy courses, students learn how to use quantitative and qualitative skills to conduct high-impact policy analyses, how to communicate effectively about complex policy issues, and how to navigate the political process as it pertains to policy making. Students complete individualized professional internships to practice applying and honing their new skills within the public or non-profit sector.
Our doctoral program prepares students for a successful research career by providing advanced education and mentoring in theory-driven interdisciplinary social science. Our faculty are committed to training doctoral students in how to produce original research to help solve systemic public problems. Located in the heart of the Capital Region of New York State, students of all levels have unique access to state government, and access to the many cultural and natural attractions of the surrounding community.
What opportunities are available to students to get work experience while learning?
At Rockefeller College, students gain valuable real-world experience through internships in both the public and private sector, locally, nationally and abroad. Internships can be full time or part time and are almost always paid opportunities.
Because Rockefeller College is located in the heart of the New York State capital, students can choose from a wide variety of career-aligned internship opportunities available in the state legislature, federal agencies, public service departments, political organizations, nonprofit groups, and policy research firms. Sample internship placements include, the New York State Senate Finance Committee; New York State Office of Counter Terrorism; Social Security Administration, American Red Cross; and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
What is something unique about your institution?
The University at Albany has added 27 new faculty positions — three of them in Rockefeller College — specializing in artificial intelligence, marking the next critical phase in the University’s ambitious plan to incorporate elements of AI teaching and research across all academic programs. AI Plus is UAlbany’s holistic approach to integrating teaching and learning about AI across our academic and research programs to ensure every graduate is prepared to live and work in a world radically changed by technology in the coming decades.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
Follow your passions to make a difference in the world. Rockefeller College will help you learn from national and internationally recognized experts, network with our outstanding alumni, and make the connections you need to succeed.