Academics

Course Descriptions

IPVS students during a lively class discussion

Voluntary Associations & Democracy
(3 credits required) - PPOL 310
This course will offer the opportunity to consider the larger context of voluntary associations, through a careful reading of Alexis de Tocqueville’s Democracy in America. Class analysis will consider, among other things: the relationship —historical and logical—between aristocracy and democracy; the instability of democracy; the mechanisms that serve as antidotes to these instabilities; the importance of religion for democracy; and whether the problem of democracy is, a forum that requires face-to-face relations for it to work. Please click on the following links for the Summer 2011 syllabi: Section 10/Section 11.

The Ethics and Values of Philanthropy (3 credits required ) - GOVT 472
Students participate in lively discussion sessions during the course as they explore the ethical and moral traditions of philanthropy. This course will enhance an appreciation for, and ability to deal with, the ethical issues that can arise in the course of philanthropic activity. Students will examine both domestic and international giving, as well as economics and weath creation. They will also examine arguments and evidence both about why and about how help should be given. Please click on the following links for the Summer 2011 syllabi: Section 10/Section 11.

A discussion about Tocqueville's Democracy in America

Nonprofit Internship Seminar
(3 credits optional ) - GOVT 241
This course offers internship reflection, leadership exercises, and career building activities. The course will look at current issues affecting professionals working in the nonprofit field such as fundraising, effective grant evaluation, and volunteer management. Students will examine the practical side of the nonprofit sector by examining examples from their internships, lectures, workshops and group activities offered throughout the eight-week institute. This seminar will provide a complete overview of the nonprofit sector in the nation’s capital. Please click here for the Summer 2011 syllabus.

Students should check with their home institution to determine how or if the Georgetown University course credit will transfer as it differs by student and the home university.

“I would be hard-pressed to say that there was a single moment that I did not learn, see, or encounter something new during my summer with IPVS. The experience continues to shape and influence my character as a person and as a professional.”
James Wu-Ea
University of Connecticut
Intern, KaBOOM!

Through my internship, the guest lecture series, and the classes held at Georgetown, I have experienced a great deal of intellectual and personal growth that will carry me throughout the rest of my collegiate and professional experience.
Kemi Oyewole
Spelman College
Intern, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship