Impactful Scholarship 

Promoting a just and peaceful world through research, teaching and public engagement, the Watson School is home to faculty, students and staff who contribute knowledge, viewpoints, and ideas from a broad array of backgrounds as they take on complex economic, political, and social policy issues.

The Watson School is building on the long-standing strength of international and public affairs at Brown through:

  • A substantial expansion in faculty who confront important global challenges through research, teaching and thought leadership.
  • A growing number of research centers and initiatives that foster globally-focused research and support extensive programming
  • An expansive and vibrant network of policy practitioners
  • Programs for Ph.D. fellows across the university, postdoctoral fellows, senior fellows with policy expertise, and military fellows that enrich both teaching and research
  • A rigorous Master of Public Affairs (MPA) degree program that prepares graduates for leadership through analytical training and experiential learning
  • An undergraduate concentration in international and public affairs that equips students to be engaged global citizens
  • Public Events that bring together students, academics, and policy practitioners from around the globe to offer distinctive views and perspectives informed by their expertise and scholarship, with wide differences in viewpoints on topics discussed and debated from across the political spectrum

On July 1, 2025 the Watson Institute was renamed the Watson School for International and Public Affairs. Philanthropy will support the continued growth of Watson-affiliated faculty, an enriched undergraduate experience, and the evolution of graduate programs, especially its signature Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program.  

“ Our transition to a school is an opportunity to think even bigger than we have before, and to consider not just what can be achieved within a few years, but where we can go with focused effort that will continue to drive growth and make this the best community it can be. ”

JOHN N. FRIEDMAN Vascellaro Family Dean of International and Public Affairs

Support the Watson School

Help us in our mission to promote a just and peaceful world through research, teaching and public engagement.


For information about specific giving opportunities, contact:

Paul Knott 
Director of Development, Academic Initiatives 
+1 (401) 863-6384 
paul_knott@brown.edu

Related Stories

Related Links