Rutgers University’s Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy has joined the Service to Service initiative, a national program led by the Volcker Alliance and We the Veterans and Military Families. The initiative is designed to help veterans and military family members transition into public service careers by connecting them with graduate education pathways.
According to Stuart Shapiro, dean of the Bloustein School, “The Bloustein School is honored to join Service to Service. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to educate individuals dedicated to public service and support them in pursuing meaningful careers that reflect their values and aspirations.”
Launched nationally in October 2024, Service to Service aims to increase enrollment of military-connected students in master’s degree programs at participating schools. It also seeks to enhance support services, professional development opportunities, and connect graduates with job placements in state and local government.
Shapiro noted that in 2025, the school admitted 23 military-affiliated applicants across its four master’s programs, with 12 ultimately enrolling. “Our new partnership with the Service to Service initiative strengthens both the Bloustein School’s and Rutgers’ ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for veterans and military families pursuing careers in public service,” he said.
The school plans to enroll its first cohort of students through this initiative in fall 2026 by working with veteran-serving organizations and recruitment channels.
The Bloustein School offers four graduate programs: a two-year master of public policy; a one-year master of public affairs and politics for mid-career professionals; a STEM-designated master of city and regional planning ranked third nationally by Planetizen; a three-semester master of public informatics focusing on data science skills; and a two-year master of health administration accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education, ranked No. 28 nationally by U.S. News & World Report. All programs offer part-time or online options.
The school will work closely with Rutgers University and government partners to provide comprehensive student support aimed at promoting retention and degree completion. Partnerships with state and local agencies are expected to facilitate job placement for graduates into high-need roles within the public sector.
Veterans or military-affiliated applicants who enroll in any Rutgers Bloustein School master’s program through Service to Service may be considered for scholarship funding.
