What are some of your school's core values and how do they come across in the courses and programs that you offer?
The Humphrey School of Public Affairs values: student success, inclusion and dialogue across differences, local and global interconnectedness, sustainability of our diverse world, communities as partners, equity, access, and social justice, and evidence-based, research-driven knowledge.
What types of programs do you offer?
Our comprehensive program offers six master's degrees, a doctoral degree, five certificates, a variety of dual degrees and professional development options, and numerous opportunities for undergraduates.
How are you helping to prepare students for careers in public service?
Long noted for equipping students to play key roles in public life at the local, state, national, and global levels, the Humphrey School is respected for its role in shaping public policy, its focus on social justice and human rights, and its expertise in planning, leadership, and management.
Our graduates work in leadership positions at local, national, and global levels. They take on critical roles in all sectors, including government, non-profit, and private organizations. They plan cities, hold public office, run nonprofits, manage government relations for Fortune 500 companies, lead sustainability efforts, and fight for equal rights, among other things.
What opportunities are available to students to get work experience while learning?
Located in the heart of the Twin Cities, the Humphrey School is perfectly positioned for local internship opportunities at the Minnesota State Capitol—which is just a short journey away by bus or light rail—and dozens of governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations. Humphrey School students also take full advantage of the summer break between their first and second years to undertake internships in Washington, D.C. and abroad.
What is something unique about your institution?
The Humphrey School is named for Hubert H. Humphrey, a longtime Minnesotan who served as mayor of Minneapolis, U.S. Senator, and Vice President. A beloved public servant and steadfast champion of civil and human rights, Humphrey’s commitment to equity and inclusion is reflected in the Humphrey School’s mission to advance the common good in a diverse world.
The legacy and values of Hubert H. Humphrey are alive in our work to address the world’s most pressing challenges—and equip students to do the same. Our faculty members are deeply engaged in interdisciplinary research and public affairs, and our alumni are leading change in our Twin Cities community and in cities and nations around the world.
If you haven’t spent much time in Minnesota, we know what you might be thinking: Winter happens, sometimes in a big way. Minneapolis, its largest city, might not seem like the first place you'd think of to study public affairs. But if you’re more familiar with Minnesota, you know that it's an often-underrated cultural hub, with diverse and dynamic communities, a thriving arts and music scene, and a long history of political and academic advancements.
With more than 3 million residents, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul form the 16th-largest metropolitan area in the United States. Together, they’re home to the No. 1-rated park system in the country, one of the most bikeable metropolitan areas, numerous professional sports teams, an impressive range of award-winning restaurants, and major new transit networks. Sure, Minnesota may be cold sometimes, but we're almost certain you'll warm up to it.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
Dream big! Our students have the best of both worlds at the Humphrey School. While receiving their core curriculum within the school, students can pursue a myriad of courses at the R1 level University of Minnesota, where significant and timely research is done. This allows students to be at the cusp of cutting edge issues such as sustainability, artificial intelligence, immigration, and people-centered design, informed by research and policy methods that are much needed in today’s complex world.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Located in the heart of the Twin Cities on the West Bank of the Mississippi River, the Humphrey School is perfectly positioned for internship opportunities at the Minnesota State Capitol—which is just a short journey away by bus or light rail—and dozens of governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations. If you're seeking to advance your existing skills, the Humphrey School's flexible mid-career MPA program makes it possible to balance full-time work and coursework.