Welcome to the School of Public Administration
Welcome to the School of Public Administration (SPA) at the University of New Mexico. Founded in 1969 under the leadership of former UNM president, Dr. Ferrel Heady, the school provides a solid academic foundation to prepare students for leadership and management positions in the public and non-profit sectors. From public management and organizational behavior, to public policy evaluation and health policy and management - our faculty provide insights into the numerous challenges facing our society and government and how they can best be managed.
SPA’s students come from diverse backgrounds - some from years of professional work experience, some are recent college graduates, and others are mid-career professionals interested in advancing in their current positions or exploring new career opportunities. Our students pride themselves in fostering debate on important issues, encouraging one another, and creating a vibrant learning environment.
We invite you to explore our website and learn about our professional administration programs.
EVENTS:
New Mexico Healthcare Executives' Scholarships Support the Masters of Health Administration - School of Public Administration Director Dr, Mario Rivera was on hand at the annual NMHE Annual Conference Friday, September 26, to accept a generous scholarship gift to benefit the SPA's Masters of Health Administration degree program. Rivera was presented the gift by President and Programs Committee Chair Matt Klosterman and ACHE Chair-Elect Richard Cordova. Rivera addressed the conference, speaking to the exciting growth and developments at the SPA, specifically within the first year of the MHA program.
NEWS:
Rivera named Interim Director at School of Public Administration - Professor Mario Rivera has been appointed Interim Director of the School of Public Administration effective immediately. Dr. Rivera joined the School of Public Administration as Associate Professor in 1993 and was promoted to full professor in 2001, with award of Regents' Professorship in 2002. Dr. Rivera takes over for Dr. Amy Wohlert, who moved into the chief of staff position for President Robert Frank.