School of Public Policy & Administration

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Education for good governance

Are you committed to social justice, ethics and democratic values? Our programs prepare tomorrow’s leaders for work in the broader public sector, spanning all levels of government and non-profit organizations. Our diverse programs provide the multidisciplinary knowledge, critical thinking, analysis and management skills that will help you realize your goals.

You’ll engage with award-winning faculty who have strong research records and many years of direct experience in public service. Our program blends practical experience with theory and emphasizes professional development and a sense of community among students.

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Read our Land Acknowledgment which recognizes the unique and enduring relationship of Indigenous people and their traditional territory.

Gain a clear understanding of the theory and practice of government, while developing the expertise required to analyze policy, evaluate programs and serve in other public functions such as project management, human resources, budgeting and finance.

Commitment to Excellence

Several of our faculty members hold awards for excellence in teaching and our active alumni association offers students unparalleled access and guidance into the professional non-partisan public service.

Co-op Opportunities

You will have the opportunity to gain experience through field placements in Public Administration related organizations. You will be able to make contacts, increase your practical knowledge base and potentially line up a future job after graduation.

Unique Programming

We deliver small class sizes and personalized attention to our students’ learning needs as well as their professional development. Develop strong research skills and interdisciplinary solutions under the supervision of faculty members from a variety of disciplines.

Balanced Focus

Public Policy and Administration is both an academic discipline and a profession. Our programs are based on a balanced combination of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies disciplines, policy and management, theory and practice, empirical and normative analysis, skills training and critical thinking.

The Institute of Public Policy of Canada (IPAC) is proud to partner with York University’s School of Public Policy & Administration (SPPA) to support and empower the next generation of public sector leaders. Through this collaboration, we are creating meaningful pathways for students to engage directly with Canada’s public administration community – whether by attending national events, connecting with senior leaders, or exploring careers in public service. Together, IPAC and SPPA are helping bridge academic learning with real-world impact and fostering a dynamic, future-ready public service across Canada.

— David Fulford, CEO IPAC

Photo of IPAC and York University: A Partnership for Public Sector Excellence

What I love most about the Public Administration program is the tremendous combined effort of staff and students to provide an academic experience that uses both in-class lectures and experiential education to truly prepare and position students to secure employment post-graduation. Every professor I have contacted, either through email or their office hours, has provided a forum that encourages respect and discussion, ultimately assisting my academic and career development.

— Eunice Patrick, BPA Graduate, Class of 2020

Learn more from current students and alumni.