faculty across 11 highly regarded departments of social science and public policy
research centers generating policy-relevant insight into pressing issues
students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs
Why We’re Different
The first school of its kind, Maxwell is known for a tradition of innovative excellence in teaching and research across the social sciences, public policy, public administration and international relations.
Organized around 15 interdisciplinary research centers focused on addressing pressing societal issues, Maxwell’s unique structure cultivates an ecosystem for ideas sparked by the convergence of expertise across the social sciences and public policy.
Enriched by Diversity
At the Maxwell School, diversity is both a core value and a distinguishing characteristic. We strive to create spaces that make every member of our community feel welcomed, supported, empowered and valued.
Time and again, we find that the most innovative ideas and comprehensive solutions arise when we bring together people representing different identities, backgrounds and experiences. In a complex, collaborative environment like the Maxwell School, diversity not only enriches us but also is essential for achieving our highest ambitions.
Working together to make the world a better place
Excellence in Undergraduate, Graduate and Continuing Professional Education
Maxwell offers a rich mix of undergraduate, graduate professional, and scholarly M.A. and Ph.D. programs that prepare new generations of leaders with an expansive foundation of knowledge and a socially responsible mindset.
No major graduate school of public affairs mixes these diverse elements the way Maxwell does. It is one reason why the the school is consistently ranked one of the nation's top schools of public affairs in surveys of peer-school faculty conducted by U.S. News & World Report.
The Maxwell School is one of 13 schools and colleges of Syracuse University, a private, international research university located in the geographic heart of New York State, offering a choice of more than 200 majors and 100 minors. The University’s global footprint includes nearly 15,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit www.syracuse.edu.
Distinctive Undergraduate Programs
Undergraduates who major or minor in the social sciences, public policy or citizenship and civic engagement at Syracuse University benefit from the same faculty who earn Maxwell its high rankings in research and graduate education, as well as opportunities to conduct research, spend a semester at Maxwell's headquarters in Washington, D.C., or study at more than 100 partner locations abroad.
In addition, a new accelerated bachelor’s/master’s program puts a Maxwell graduate professional degree in public administration or international affairs within reach for highly-qualified undergraduate applicants with just one additional year of study.
Top Ranked Graduate Programs
Innovative, Flexible Professional Training Programs
Impactful, Policy-Relevant Research
Maxwell scholars and students conduct wide-ranging research through interdisciplinary centers, each focused on a topical area within public affairs, such as social and economic policy, conflict and collaboration, public wellness, aging, energy and environment, national security, and regional studies, among others.
Faculty are sought-after experts in their field who regularly provide testimony to Congress, participate in media interviews, receive prominent grant awards and fellowships, and advise a wide range of private, nonprofit and public agencies at every level of government.