In this era of globalization, the arena of professional practice is an international one. MPA graduates must be adept at addressing issues that arise both locally and globally. Issues of sustainability and the environment, health, infrastructure, public finance, governance, role of nonprofits, economic development, changing demographics, terrorism, and leadership are increasingly important and transcend national boundaries.
Successful leaders must have the skills to address these issues from an international and comparative perspective and an understanding of the roles of national and local governments, nongovernmental organizations, and private businesses in different societies in solving these increasingly complex problems.
USC Price is well positioned to assist MPA students in gaining those skills. USC is a global university and enrolls more international students than any other US university. In USC Price, the student body comes from 38 different countries and regions throughout the world. Many of the American students have had international experience prior to joining USC Price through Peace Corps, study-abroad programs, Habitat for Humanity, international community based organizations, and other organizations and programs. MPA students may participate in International Labs, take electives in international policy and management, and participate in the many programs offered through USC Price’s International Initiatives. The USC and USC Price worldwide alumni network greatly assists USC Price graduates.