The Institute of Public Service educates working professionals for positions of responsibility and leadership in the public service. The Institute, consistent with the mission of Seattle University is ‘dedicated to educating the whole person, to professional formation, and to empowering leaders for a just and humane world.'

The Institute offers a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree. The MPA degree is designed for working professionals seeking to increase their management and leadership skills for application in government and nonprofit organizations. The MPA degree is a 54-credit multidisciplinary program, combining cutting-edge knowledge and practices in public policy, organizational leadership, economics, public finance, and administrative law.  Specializations in government and nonprofit management are offered for students seeking careers in these sectors.  Classes are offered in the evenings and on Saturdays. 

The Institute of Public Service also offers a Bachelor of Public Affairs (BPA) degree. The BPA degree is designed for students interested in public policy, community planning, and advocacy. The BPA major encourages students to explore diverse perspectives, apply problem-solving skills, and engage in practical experiences that enable graduates to undertake important leadership responsibilities and challenging work in the public and nonprofit sectors. The Institute also offers an undergraduate minor in public affairs.

Students and graduates are expected to meet high standards of professionalism, trust, and stewardship. The Institute's academic programs are responsive to the evolving character of public service and to the changing problems public leaders confront.

The Institute serves neighboring communities and the region through applied research, collaborations, training, consultation, and public policy forums.