University of Alabama creates School of Leadership & Policy

The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees has approved the creation of The University of Alabama School of Leadership and Policy. 

The University of Alabama has already graduated some of the most effective civic leaders and policymakers in the state, including U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery), former U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Tuscaloosa), former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions and former Gov. Robert Bentley.

The school will offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in public policy and leadership starting in fall 2027, with the search for a dean set to begin this month. The timeline for launching the first classes includes a process of obtaining necessary approvals in 2026 and early 2027. Recruitment of the first cohort will begin in Fall 2026 and Spring 2027.

“The University of Alabama’s new School of Leadership and Policy will instill the qualities of ethical leadership, innovative thinking and evidence-based policymaking to shape the trajectory of communities across Alabama and the United States,” UA president Peter J. Mohler said.

The school's goal is to offer interdisciplinary, practice-focused education that prepares students to become effective leaders, policymakers, and public servants who will contribute to Alabama’s and the nation's social, economic, and civic well-being.

“By cultivating leadership talent and policy expertise, the School of Leadership and Policy will serve as a catalyst for developing the next generation of changemakers — those who will lead Alabama and the nation toward a prosperous and resilient future,” Mohler said. 

According to a press statement put out by the university, "The proposed curriculum will equip students with knowledge and skills to participate effectively in civic life and government, with a strong understanding of the foundational principles that shape American institutions, laws and discourse. Students will be exposed to multiple viewpoints and engage directly with a wide range of public institutions, nonprofit organizations and entities from the private sector through internships, policy labs and community-based projects, ensuring they develop perspective, skills and insight needed to address complex challenges with tangible solutions at state, national and global levels."

Britt weighed in with a social media post, stating, "As a proud graduate, my time at the University of Alabama gave me a foundation that carried me all the way to the U.S. Senate. I'm thrilled to see UA launch a School of Leadership and Policy to empower the next generation of leaders."

"I am confident that through this program, our University will become a national model for leadership development and applied policy education," she added.

“Through rigorous interdisciplinary studies rooted in the foundational principles of American democracy, The University of Alabama’s School of Leadership and Policy will educate and empower our students to become effective and principled leaders equipped to improve lives across Alabama and beyond,” said UA System chancellor Sid J. Trant. “I am very excited for the role this school will play in the future of our state and nation.” 

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