Prepare to Lead and Advocate for Change
We are the University of Illinois System’s capital city connection for studying public affairs, education, and communication.
Whether you're interested in politics, public policy and administration, teaching, educational administration, or interpersonal and mass-mediated communication—we want to help you to take the next step in your educational journey.
Our world-class programs emphasize interdisciplinary, experiential learning and prepare students for leadership roles and careers in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors or to seek further education.
Schools and Departments
Whether on-campus, online, or a blend of the two, our undergraduate and graduate degree programs, certificates, and minors will connect you with opportunities unique to living and learning in a capital city. Whatever program you choose, you'll gain the knowledge, experience, and skills to build a meaningful career—and to transform lives and make a difference locally and globally.
School of Education
Choose your path and become a professional educator (teacher licensure in elementary and secondary education), complete a certificate, add an endorsement, or obtain a Masters degree in Education or Educational Leadership.
School of Communication and Media
From the perspectives of interpersonal and mass-mediated communication, we offer undergraduate opportunities and graduate degrees in Communication Studies and Public Affairs Reporting.
School of Politics and International Affairs
Graduate and undergraduate degrees to develop the knowledge, skills, and practical experience you need to succeed in international affairs, practical politics, or academia.
School of Public Management and Policy
Undergraduate, Master's, and Doctoral-level training for leadership and research roles in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors. Home of the highly-ranked Master of Public Administration (MPA) program.
Department of Legal Studies
Graduate and undergraduate offerings providing an interdisciplinary approach to the study of law, the legal system, and the role law plays in society.
Where students are inspired to lead, equipped to serve, and connected to opportunity
Why Choose CPAE?
We are proud to be the world-class University of Illinois System's capital city connection. Your CPAE degree will be among the most prestigious in the nation!
We bring the Illinois Capital City to You! Whether on campus or online, you will have exclusive access to internship and experiential learning opportunities that put you at the heart of the action.
With a network that extends across the globe, CPAE alumni work in research, government, schools and school systems, business, international relations, NGOs and non-profits. They mentor students, give guest lectures, offer valuable internship opportunities and provide critical financial support.
Embrace the future with confidence!
