The Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs (BSPA)
The BSPA prepares students to analyze problems and effectively solve issues with the principle goal of enhancing all aspects of public life.
Baruch College emphasizes the importance of civic engagement, community leadership, and the professional development of current and future public service leaders. The college follows the tradition of its namesake, Bernard M. Baruch, a public servant who advised seven U.S. presidents.
Public Affairs is a unique degree within the city that cultivates passion and prepares individuals to tackle social justice issues and uplift our communities both domestically and internationally. The College and School acknowledge its significance. As a result, there has been a commitment to serve more individuals focused on public service.
The program is interdisciplinary, which means that many diverse fields are studied. With this degree students develop a strong, marketable foundation that is flexible across the various sectors – public, nonprofit, and even private.
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.”
