Furman enters into partnership with UVA’s Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy

Furman University students interested in attending graduate school at the University of Virginia’s Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy now have an inside track to gaining admission.

Furman and the University of Virginia have entered into an affiliation agreement that provides incentives for Furman students and alumni interested in public policy to attend the Batten School, where they can earn a Master of Public Policy (MPP).

Politics and International Affairs Associate Professor David Fleming will serve as Furman coordinator for the partnership with the Batten School.

“The Batten School was founded to educate and train the next generation of ethical, enlightened public leaders,” said Allan Stam, dean of the Batten School. “As a result, our school aims to attract individuals who are not only bright but also have the potential to lead the world to positive, lasting change. Furman’s focus on both classroom instruction and experiential learning helps to develop the leaders of tomorrow, and we are delighted to forge this partnership to bring some of Furman’s best into the Batten School.”

The agreement states that the Batten School will reserve one space in each MPP class for a Furman senior or alumni who meets the school’s admissions requirements. More than one Furman student may be accepted into the program each year.

Furman students selected for admission will receive financial support of at least $12,500 for Virginia residents and at least $20,000 for non-Virginia residents for each of the MPP program’s two years. Students can earn additional assistantships, fellowships and other awards.

All Furman applicants will have their application fee waived.

“We are thrilled that Furman students and alumni will have this great opportunity to receive a top-flight graduate school education at the Batten School,” said Associate Professor of Politics and International Affairs David Fleming, who will serve as Furman coordinator for the program. “The mission of the Batten School to enhance public leadership is consistent with The Furman Advantage.”

For more information, contact David Fleming at 864-294-2360 and david.fleming@furman.edu.