Inside Texas Southern University Barbara Jordan–Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs

At the heart of Texas Southern University stands an institution rooted in leadership, public service, and community impact: the Barbara Jordan–Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs (BJMLSPA). Named after two iconic figures in Texas and national politics, the school continues their legacy by preparing students to lead with purpose, integrity, and a commitment to public good.

The namesakes of the school, Barbara Jordan, the trailblazing congresswoman known for her powerful voice in civil rights, and Mickey Leland, a humanitarian and congressman devoted to eradicating hunger, set the tone for what BJMLSPA represents today. BJMLSPA blends academic excellence with civic responsibility, empowering students to become leaders across the fields of public policy, law enforcement, urban planning, and government. 

Students have access to a rich academic offering, beginning with three undergraduate degrees:

• B.S. in Public Affairs
  
• B.S. in Administration of Justice
  
• B.A. in Political Science

For those pursuing advanced study, BJMLSPA offers several graduate programs:

• Master of Public Administration
  
• Master and Ph.D. in Administration of Justice
  
• Master and Ph.D. in Urban Planning and Environmental Policy

These programs are more than classroom experiences, they are built to cultivate future policymakers, public servants, and community advocates who understand the complexity of today’s social and political landscapes.

A Hub for Urban and Global Impact

The school’s vision is bold: to become a nationally and internationally recognized leader in global and urban affairs, shaping communities that are sustainable, just, and inclusive. Also its mission is clear: to educate professionals who will plan and administer environmentally healthy and sustainable communities, not just in Houston or Texas, but on a global scale. That goal drives every course, every research initiative, and every student-led project.

Whether you’re looking to make a difference in criminal justice reform, lead in public policy, or shape cities through thoughtful planning, the Barbara Jordan–Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs is where passion meets purpose.
To learn more about programs and how to apply, visit Texas Southern University’s website.