About

The Thomas J. Watson Jr. School of International and Public Affairs seeks to promote a just and peaceful world through research and teaching on the world’s most pressing economic, political and social policy challenges.

A distinctive approach to complex challenges.

The Watson School of International and Public Affairs is home to a vibrant network of faculty and policy practitioners, leading educational programs, and a growing number of research centers and initiatives that foster globally-focused research and support extensive programming. As Brown University’s new policy school, it serves as the central home on campus for teaching, research, and public engagement around the world’s most complex policy challenges. The School builds on research strengths in security, governance and development, established by Brown’s Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs and the Center for International Studies that preceded it. 

"This new school offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build an interdisciplinary community of scholars, students and practitioners at Brown to address the world’s most pressing issues in international and public affairs."

John N. Friedman Vascellaro Family Dean of the Thomas J. Watson Jr. School of International and Public Affairs at Brown University
 
John N. Friedman

The Watson School is uniquely embedded within a university ecosystem dedicated to innovative education and exceptional research. With jointly appointed faculty across a growing number of disciplines, Watson faculty produce research that is cutting edge in their respective fields, yet transcends traditional academic boundaries through their involvement with the Watson School. Every day, Watson community members participate in a collaborative process, discussing and debating pressing global issues, ranging from security to international development and economic inequality, while drawing upon multiple perspectives informed by a diversity of ideas and experiences. 

The Watson School is dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and understanding through hands-on, policy-focused learning experiences that enable students to develop professional skills and expertise. Home to a rigorous Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program, a thriving undergraduate concentration, a Military Fellows program, a postdoctoral fellows program, and opportunities for Brown Ph.D. students, the Watson School is driven by the conviction that policy solutions informed by rigorous research can change systems and societies for the better.

100,000 +

Brown University alumni network across 152 countries

60 +

Expert faculty and policy practitioners across disciplines

350 +

annual media mentions

Faculty insights and research are featured in top outlets shaping public discourse on global policy.

Learn more about the Watson School

The Watson School conducts research across disciplines to address 21st-century challenges, including security threats, conflict and war, climate and environmental issues, and global development.
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The Watson School is proud to house several region or topic-focused centers, initiatives and projects that are dedicated to research, teaching and outreach. These entities also serve as conveners, sponsoring informative events that inspire dialogue among scholars, students and the public.
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