Government

Learn now, lead tomorrow.

Virtual Government Academies

Engage with renowned speakers and faculty from Harvard Kennedy School, explore today's global issues and challenges, and gain a broader perspective of law and politics.

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Pre-Law

The Government: Pre-Law Academy provides an opportunity for students to gain knowledge about the U.S. legal system, Supreme Court cases, and different types of law. Learning how to approach cases and legal documents like a lawyer, and developing valuable critical thinking and reading skills, will prepare students for a mock trial, where they will have the opportunity to step into the shoes of a lawyer, witness, or judge, and simulate a real legal trial. The strong curriculum taught allows students to not only learn about the U.S. legal system, but also gain a better understanding of what being pre-law entails.

What you'll learn:
  • Explore and learn about different types of law, from corporate law to real estate law.
  • Study the court cases that have shaped our legal framework and laws today.
  • Take a deep dive into the federal court system and how your own state court system is structured.
  • Learn how to approach and read cases like a lawyer.
  • Practice LSAT questions and participate in a mock trial.

International Politics

The Government: International Politics Academy provides students with insight into the structures of government, as well as diplomacy tactics and international relations between countries. Learning about topics ranging from how political campaigns work, to how laws are written and passed in Congress, to the impact on game theory on diplomacy will prepare students for their own attempt at writing public policy. The curriculum allows students to not only learn about international political science, but also gain a better understanding of what working in government entails.

What you'll learn:
  • Take an in-depth look into the workings of government, from elections and political campaigns, to policy writing and legislation passing.
  • Understand what diplomacy is and how countries interact with each other, including game theory analysis.
  • Learn about political theory, authoritarian and totalitarian regimes, populism, liberalism, and conservatism.
  • Place yourselves in the shoes of a policy pitch team and present a viable proposal to Harvard student judges.

Week-long Academies Schedule

Program Dates
Pre-Law August 5 - August 9
Pre-Law August 12 - August 16
International Politics August 19 - August 23
Pre-Law August 26 - August 30

Weekend Academies Schedule

Program Dates
International Politics September 14 - September 15
Pre-Law September 21 - September 22
Pre-Law October 19 - October 20
Pre-Law November 2 - November 3
International Politics November 9 - November 10
Pre-Law November 16 - November 17
Pre-Law December 7 - December 8
International Politics December 14 - December 15
Pre-Law December 21 - December 22