Global Public Affairs
Preparing globally minded problem solvers with the rigor, range, and resolve to lead in an uncertain world.
Introducing MGPA
The rules-based international order is fraying. Climate change, democratic erosion, and rising inequality won’t wait for new frameworks to emerge. Neither should you.
UCLA Luskin’s Master of Global Public Affairs prepares globally minded problem solvers to tackle the challenges defining this century. Based in Los Angeles, one of the world’s global cities and gateway to the Pacific Rim, you’ll learn from world-class practitioners and researchers, gain real-world experience, and graduate ready to lead.
The world needs new rules written by a new generation of global leaders. Be one of them.
First cohort will start in Fall 2028.
Why UCLA MGPA?
Built for This Moment
Most global policy programs were designed for a different era. UCLA’s MGPA was built to teach skills that address the contemporary challenges, such as climate disruption, democratic erosion, AI, and a realigning global order.
West Coast Advantage
LA is at the intersection of the Pacific Rim and Latin America – a hub for global culture and commerce. UCLA is at the center of LA. Our students live in a city where problems and policy solutions play out in real time.
Skills for Uncertainty
Our MGPA trains problem solvers. You’ll graduate with practical tools, analytical frameworks, and the professional confidence to navigate real-world problems in real time.
Academic Programs
Designed for Today's World
Multiple disciplines, multiple perspectives. MGPA courses are taught by faculty with degrees in economics, law, political science, sociology, social welfare, urban design, and urban planning. Students learn to examine problems with different lenses to broaden understanding.
Guided by values, grounded in evidence. The goals that define global progress such as inclusive development, sustainability, human rights, and democracy are sometimes in tension. MGPA teaches students to articulate tradeoffs and navigate complexity with judgment, rigor, and resolve.
More than a degree. MGPA provides a bridge to careers in public service, the private sector, and civil society. Students graduate as part of the expansive and supportive UCLA Luskin alumni network.
Curriculum
Courses that teach students how to diagnose problems, devise solutions, evaluate impact, and exercise judgment.
Our People
Faculty and affiliates with expertise and experiences that span regions, sectors, and policy domains.
Admissions
Be part of our first cohort. Lead the next generation of global leaders.
By the Numbers
Public University in the Nation
UCLA is ranked #1 in the nation for public universities by U.S. News & World Report (2026).
Students in First Cohort
With a small faculty-to-student ratio, we offer students personalized mentorship, close collaboration with faculty, and a more supportive, community-centered learning environment.
Luskin Alumni Network
Join a global network of more than 10,000 UCLA Luskin alumni who are leading change across government, nonprofits, academia, and the private sector.
Savings over Comparable Private Programs
Tuition and fees for resident students are half the rates of comparable private programs. Non-resident tuition and fees are ~30% less.
Global Public Affairs Events
Contacts
UCLA Global Public Affairs Program
Luskin School of Public Affairs
3250 Public Affairs Building
Los Angeles, CA 90095-1656
Contact us: mgpa@luskin.ucla.edu
Darin Christensen
Chair and Associate Professor
Global Public Affairs, Public Policy
Julie Straub
Assistant Dean
UCLA Luskin