About
The Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is a leading academic institution in improving the design, implementation, and evaluation of public policy and the practice of governance.
We offer domestic and international master’s degrees as well as certificates for undergraduate students.
Who we are
Vision and leadership
What we stand for
At the La Follette School, we strive to inspire evidence-based policymaking and to advance the public good.
Our director
Susan Webb Yackee is Director of the La Follette School of Public Affairs and a Collins-Bascom Professor of Public Affairs at UW–Madison.
Board of Visitors
La Follette School Board of Visitors members are experts chosen to help advise the school. They have experience in government, nonprofits, and the private sector.
The Kohl Initiative
Funded by former U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl, the Kohl Initiative has transformed the La Follette School’s ability to expand public outreach, train future public leaders, and support influential research
Land acknowledgment
Humans have called this place home for 12,000 years and counting. Today, the University of Wisconsin–Madison rests in the ancestral land of the Ho-Chunk Nation, the People of the Big Voice, who have called this place Teejop (day-JOPE) for time immemorial. We as a university community continue to create and build upon our partnerships with the 12 First Nations of Wisconsin. We as a state university respect the inherent sovereignty and unique legal status, as affirmed and set forth in state and federal law, of the First Nations of Wisconsin.
Research and impact
From the water we drink to the global economy, policy affects all aspects of life. Learn about the policy areas where we have an impact.
Social Policy
How do government policies and programs shape individual and family well-being?
Health and aging
Changes to health policy and health services can have major implications the lives of citizens.
Public Management
How programs are designed and implemented has a major impact on how policy affects citizens.
Energy and environment
Policies to incentivize or regulate certain energy sources and clean technologies will have a major impact on our future.
International policy
Our faculty includes experts on international trade, diplomacy, and global finance.
Annual reports
Our annual highlights report and points of pride document showcase the achievements of our students, faculty, alumni, and staff each academic year. Email us for printed copies.
Watch 2023-2024 highlights
Diversity, equity, and inclusion
We strive to create diverse, inclusive, and excellent environments for all students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
Outreach
Serving communities
Our students and faculty partner with public, nonprofit, and private sector organizations to address real-world challenges.
Supporting policymakers
We connect state legislators and policymakers with resources at the La Follette School and at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Convening the public
We host public events with policy experts to inform and engage the public.
Informing the media
Our faculty regularly share their expertise with the media on timely policy topics.