It’s been an extraordinary year – one filled with global challenges and inspiring acts of public service. At Princeton SPIA, we continue to be moved by the work our admitted students have done, and will do, in service to their communities and the world. Their commitment is a powerful reflection of Princeton’s informal motto: Princeton in the Nation’s Service and the Service of Humanity.
As the academic year begins in earnest, we are thrilled to welcome a dynamic and diverse new cohort of MPA, MPP, and PhD students to the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs.
A Year of Impact and Momentum
Despite the many public policy challenges facing our world, one thing remains clear: our students continue to lead with purpose and impact. Their work exemplifies the values we hold dear at SPIA, and we are proud to support them on their journey.
This year, we are excited to welcome 85 new graduate students, including:
- 8 PhD students
- 20 MPP students
- 57 MPA students
They represent:
- 20 U.S. states
- 27 countries (including dual citizens)
- 73 undergraduate institutions
- 57 academic majors
- 21 students with prior graduate degrees
A Community of Excellence and Diversity
Nearly 70% of our incoming students are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and roughly half are women. Just under 40% are first-generation or lower-income students, and we are proud of the strong representation across the military and other important dimensions including geographic, political, and religious affiliations.
Our students bring a wide range of passions and experiences. They:
- Play jazz and soccer
- Mentor and teach
- Enjoy baking, singing, hiking, fossil hunting, rock climbing, and sudoku
- Follow the NBA and FC Barcelona
- Host dinner parties
- Have served as acting mayors
- Are amateur boxers and former figure skaters
- Have founded non-profit organizations
They collectively speak 30 different languages and have worked at 76 organizations across local, state and federal governments, NGOs, multilateral institutions, and policy spheres.
Looking Ahead
We’re also excited to welcome new high-impact faculty and accomplished practitioners to SPIA, further enriching our academic community. With record applications to our MPP and PhD programs, and a strong number of applications to the MPA program, this year’s cohort is among the most talented and diverse we’ve ever welcomed.
Our application for the next admissions cycle opens in mid-September, and we look forward to connecting with prospective students on the road, virtually, and through your applications.
Thank you for your interest in our community. We can’t wait to see the impact our students will make next.