Governance and International Public Management

Program Description: Governance and International Public Management at the University of Pittsburgh

The Governance and International Public Management program at the University of Pittsburgh offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in governing institutions at both national and international levels. This multidisciplinary program combines theoretical foundations with practical skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles in public sector organizations, international agencies, nonprofits, and policy research institutes. Students explore topics such as public policy analysis, organizational behavior, international relations, public administration, and management strategies, gaining insights into the challenges faced by governments and international bodies in an increasingly interconnected world.

The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and effective communication, equipping students with the tools needed to design, implement, and evaluate public policies that serve diverse populations. Through a mix of coursework, case studies, internships, and research projects, students develop a nuanced understanding of governance structures, public accountability, and the dynamics of power and influence in public management. The program emphasizes fostering a global perspective, encouraging students to analyze issues from multiple cultural and political viewpoints, and to consider the implications of international cooperation and conflict.

Faculty members are distinguished scholars and experienced practitioners dedicated to mentorship and academic excellence. They facilitate an engaging learning environment that encourages innovation, analytical rigor, and real-world problem solving. The program also provides opportunities for networking with professionals from government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector, enhancing students' career prospects.

Graduates of the Governance and International Public Management program are well-equipped to pursue careers in public administration, policymaking, diplomatic service, international development, and nonprofit management. They are also prepared for further academic study in related fields such as public policy, international relations, or administrative law. With a robust foundation in governance principles and management practices, students are empowered to contribute meaningfully to public life and to address the pressing challenges facing societies around the globe.

• PIA 2011 - MANAGING INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS (required)
• PIA 2103 - MANAGING PEOPLE IN THE PUBLIC AND NON-PROFIT SECTOR
• PIA 2119/3119 – POLICY DESIGN/IMPLEMENTATION
• PIA 2129 - LAW AND CIVIL SECURITY
• PIA 2164 - NATURAL RESOURCES GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
• PIA 2185 - STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT
• PIA 2328 - ETHICS AND NATIONAL SECURITY
• PIA 2359 - ETHNIC CONFLICT AND CIVIL WAR
• PIA 2372 – POLITICAL ECONOMY OF CHINA
• PIA 2382 - THEORY & CONCEPTS COMP POLITICS
• PIA 2460 - LATIN AMERICA SOCIAL & PUBLIC POLICY
• PIA 2501 – DEVELOPMENT POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION (if not used toward core)
• PIA 2507 - HUMAN RIGHTS: POLITICS AND PRACTICE
• PIA 2551 - GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT
• PIA 2609 - GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY AND PUBLIC POLICY DC SEMESTER

Requirements

Online Application. Complete and submit the online application in its entirety. All application materials can be submitted electronically using the online system, with the exception of academic transcripts. 

Application Fee. The non-refundable $50 application fee may be paid by check or credit card. You will be prompted to pay the fee at the end of the online application process. The application fee is waived for Returned Peace Corps Volunteers, AmeriCorps Volunteers, Truman Scholars, Pickering Fellows, Coro Fellows, Rangel Fellows, McNair Fellows, Teach for America alumni, City Year alumni, Payne Fellows, Catholic Volunteer Network alumni, and veterans/active duty members of the US Armed Forces.

Early Application Discount: Prospective students who submit a complete online application for fall-term admission by December 31 of the previous year pay a reduced application fee of $25.
 
Résumé. All applicants should upload a current résumé/curriculum vitae, showing relevant awards, academic achievements, full- and part-time job experience, internships, and volunteer work. 

Personal Essay. Introduce yourself to the admissions committee. Discuss your professional goals and why you feel a GSPIA degree can help you attain them. Describe your background, interests, and motivation for pursuing graduate work in public & international affairs. There is a 5,000 character limit (approximately two double-spaced, typed pages).

Second Essay (PhD applicants only – not required for master’s or non-degree candidates). Identify the broad topic and research questions you envision as the focus of your doctoral dissertation research, as well as the methodologies you intend to use. There is a 5,000 character limit (approximately two double-spaced, typed pages).

Optional Essay. If there are any special circumstances you would like the admissions committee to consider, highlight them in the optional essay. Use this essay to include any information that you feel is important, but that you were not able to include elsewhere on the application. There is no penalty for leaving this blank.

GRE or GMAT Scores (not required for MPPM and non-degree applicants). All applicants to the MPA, MPIA, MID, and PhD programs must have taken the GRE or GMAT within five years of the date of their application. It is not necessary to take both exams; either test score may be submitted. Official score reports must be sent directly from the testing agency to GSPIA. (GRE test takers can order score reports online at www.gre.org. GMAT test takers can order reports at www.mba.com). Copies of your own score report are not acceptable. GSPIA’s institutional code is for the GRE 2574.

Exceptions: Students applying to GSPIA’s joint-degree program with the University of Pittsburgh School of Law may substitute an LSAT score in lieu of the GRE.

TOEFL/IELTS Scores (international students only). International applicants must submit either the TOEFL or the IELTS. Contact Educational Testing Services directly to request that an official score report be sent to GSPIA. The minimum TOEFL score required for admission is 80 on the Internet-based test, although 90 or above is strongly preferred. The minimum IELTS score required for admission is 7.0 (overall, and in each of the subsections). GSPIA’s institutional code is 2574.

Exceptions: International students who completed a degree at a regionally accredited college or university in the United States are not required to submit a TOEFL/IELTS score. Students from certain English-speaking countries are also exempt (see this link for a list of exempt countries). All US citizens and permanent residents are exempt.  

Academic Transcripts.  When completing the online application, you will be asked to upload copies of official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended, whether or not you earned a degree. You should upload a scanned copy of an official transcript generated by your university’s registrar’s office. Self-reported transcripts, student grade reports, or copies of unofficial transcripts are not acceptable. 

It is not necessary to submit hard copies of your transcripts at the time of application, as long as your scanned copies have uploaded successfully. If you are admitted, you will then be required to submit final, official transcripts directly from your university’s registrar’s office to GSPIA. The official copy must exactly match the scanned copy that you submitted at the time of application. 

If you do not have access to technology that will allow you to submit a scanned copy of your transcript at the time of application, you may submit an official copy instead. The official copy must be sent by mail directly from your university’s registrar’s office to GSPIA (3601 Posvar Hall; Pittsburgh, PA 15260). 

Two Letters of Recommendation. Letters should be written by professors who have taught you or supervisors who have overseen your work, either professionally or in a volunteer capacity. If you graduated from college less than three years ago, at least one, if not both, of your letters should be from professors. Letters written by friends, family members, work colleagues, or anyone who has not taught or supervised you are not acceptable. 

All letters must be submitted online. When you complete the online application, you will be prompted to enter the names and email addresses of your recommenders. The system will automatically send them an email explaining how they can upload their letters.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• Global Education
• GSPIA-Based Funding
• University-Based Funding

The University of Pittsburgh offers a comprehensive program in Governance and International Public Management designed to prepare students for leadership roles in public policy, international relations, and government administration. The program emphasizes the development of core competencies in public management, policy analysis, international governance, and organizational leadership. Students are exposed to a multidisciplinary curriculum that combines political science, economics, public administration, and international relations to equip them with a broad understanding of the challenges and opportunities in governance structures worldwide. The program also includes practical components such as internships, research projects, and seminars led by experienced faculty and professionals from the public and nonprofit sectors. Graduates will be prepared to work in government agencies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and private sector entities that interface with public policy and international affairs. The university prides itself on fostering a collaborative learning environment, promoting critical thinking, and encouraging innovative problem-solving approaches. Students benefit from access to Pittsburgh's vibrant policy community and extensive alumni network, facilitating professional development and career advancement. The program aims to address contemporary issues such as global security, economic development, social equity, and environmental sustainability, preparing graduates to lead sustainable and ethical initiatives at multiple levels of governance. Courses are designed to offer theoretical foundations as well as practical skills such as policy drafting, strategic planning, and data analysis. The University of Pittsburgh’s location, resources, and distinguished faculty make it an ideal institution for students interested in governance and international public management, providing a rich educational experience that bridges academic theory and real-world application.