UConn’s School of Public Policy continues to earn national recognition, ranking among the top public affairs programs in the country in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, released April 7th.

The School ranked No. 44 nationally, No. 1 in Connecticut, and No. 2 in New England, reflecting its strong reputation and leadership in public service education. It also placed No. 12 in public budgeting and finance and, new this year, No. 24 in nonprofit management.

“It’s exciting,” said School of Public Policy Director Dr. Angie Eikenberry. “Being ranked in the top 15% of all public affairs programs (out of the 266 ranked) reflects the respect our work has earned. The rankings highlight the strength of our faculty and academic offerings, as well as the School’s impact on communities in Connecticut and beyond.”

Dr. Eikenberry notes that while peer rankings are valuable, they are only one measure of program impact.

“UConn SPP is defined by outcomes,” she said. “We have a highly diverse student body and excellent retention rate – 100% over the past few years – in part because we also offer all our pre- or early-career students the opportunity to apply for paid internships that provide meaningful, hands-on experience.”

That focus translates into strong post-graduate results. Ninety-seven percent of graduates are employed within six months, and alumni go on to careers across Connecticut and nationwide, shaping policy and advancing public service in a wide range of roles.

“Our alumni are the ‘who’s who’ of public service professionals in the state,” Eikenberry said. “Together, these outcomes demonstrate the strength of our academic experience, the success of our students, and the School’s broader impact.”