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Growing together as one school committed to the fearless pursuit of the public good.
Formerly known as the Maryland School of Public Affairs, the School of Public Policy has evolved significantly since it opened in 1982. What began with seven faculty and 12 students, has grown to more than 100 faculty and staff and over 400 undergraduate and graduate students. With expanding academic programs, a growing portfolio of research, and increasing partnerships with government, nonprofit and private organizations, the School embodies the ideals of public policy as a means of bringing people together for constructive dialogue.
Thurgood Marshall Hall
The new School of Public Policy building bears the name of civil rights lawyer and former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, honoring his role in breaking down barriers for Black and African American students, including the University of Maryland’s desegregation.
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Our new 77,000 square-foot building opened in fall 2022 and offers state-of-the-art teaching and collaborative spaces for students, faculty and staff. Designed for critical exploration of pressing public issues, the building also features an architectural deliberation classroom modeled in the spirit of a classic parliamentary debate chamber, spaces for students to gather and engage in lively discussions, and distinguished venues to host local, national and international leaders. The school's new home is situated next to Chapel Field, steps from McKeldin Mall, and adjacent to the coming Purple Line, which will connect communities throughout Prince George's and Montgomery counties, and Washington, DC.
The building is designed to put students and faculty into practitioners' spaces and to shape future policy leaders who will shape the world. With its high-tech classrooms and collaborative meeting areas, students are in the best place to launch their careers and pursue the public good.Dean Robert C. Orr