The University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs ranks among the top professional schools of public affairs at public universities in the country. The School is widely recognized for its role in examining public issues and shaping policy and planning at the local, state, national, and international levels, as well as for providing leadership and management expertise to public and nonprofit organizations. The School offers five graduate degrees, including a master of development practice degree in international development that welcomed its first cohort in August 2010.

Under the leadership of nationally prominent political scientist Lawrence Jacobs, the Center for the Study of Politics and Governance (CSPG) develops practical, independent, and non-partisan solutions to pressing political and policy challenges.  Founded in 2005, CSPG fosters effective and efficient governance, increases the transparency of government processes, and rebuilds the public trust in order to counteract negative influences that threaten our democracy.