The Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs (BSPA)
The Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs is a degree for students passionate about making a difference in the world. We offer hands-on, interdisciplinary classes that give you the analytic and advocacy skills you need to work for positive change on issues that matter to you — such as poverty, immigration reform, climate change, educational inequality, and much, much more.
Our graduates work in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors and jump-start their careers with a Hagedorn internship — an opportunity to gain real world work experience while earning college credits and a generous stipend.
Academic Advisement
Advisement services are provided to students pursuing the BSPA and Public Service Minor. Learn more
Public Affairs Courses
Public Affairs majors take six required core courses and at least four Public Affairs electives. Learn more about BSPA classes
Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs Degree Details
Meet Some of Our Alums
Deciding to attend Baruch College was easily one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Being a Marxe student goes beyond receiving a quality education. It’s an opportunity to foster friendships, gain mentors, and expand professionally. As an undergraduate student, I had the opportunity to learn about policies that affect New York City on a local, state, and even an international level. I did so through hands-on internships with the NYC Council, NYS Senate, and the United Nations; something I was able to achieve through the support Marxe poured into me. These experiences shaped me into the public servant I am today, and have allowed me to confidently enter the workforce as an experienced city employee.”
Marxe changed my life by showing me that there are many ways to make an impact in my corner of the world. Being here challenged me to think critically and shift my mindset to becoming solution orientated. I was not only exposed to a variety of potential career tracks but also a strong network of classmates, professors, alumni etc. Through this exposure I was able to leave the program with a range of internships including at the United Nations, New York State Senate, Capalino, and the Mayor’s Office. I am now stepping into my role at Accenture hoping to explore how technology can reimagine how we think of public service.”
Maleeka Zainab, BSPA 2022
Intern,Capalino; Incoming Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals 2022-23 cohort
I came to Marxe with the understanding that my degree will not only educate me in the political institutions that drive change but also give me the technical research and data analyzation skills needed to enter the workforce in 2022. What I was pleasantly surprised by was the amount of support I found with the mentors in the alumni community and faculty. Throughout my undergrad, I had many opportunities to intern in the nonprofit sector, state and federal government where I conducted policy research, attending meetings with advocacy groups, and familiarized myself with the policy process overall. Moreover, I got to know local leaders and issues that impact my life directly as a New Yorker.”
For any question, please email mspia.bspa@baruch.cuny.edu
