"Coming to this program was a life-changing experience. I walked in with a set of ideas, morals and opinions towards the economy and politics, and walked out with a totally new outlook on these issues."
- Christina Uranga, '02
Embassy of Bolivia
Southern Methodist University

The Institute offers a nine-credit curriculum, including two courses on economics and government at Georgetown University, Washington's leading institution of higher learning. The third class, Leadership Scholars Seminar, offers credit for the internship and a weekly seminar. Comparative Economic Systems (view syllabus) looks at the fundamental nature of market-based economies. You will examine the advantages of capitalism and the history of free-market economies. Macroeconomics or a similar class is a prerequisite for this course. The Transformation of American Politics (view syllabus) explores the development of American politics, beginning with the era of the Founding Fathers. You will review the U.S. Constitution, philosophical writings on forms of government, and their effect on the transformation of the democratic system through the 20th century.

The Leadership Scholars Seminar is designed to allow students to integrate their internships, panel discussions, and site briefings and to understand them in the context of the theory and practice of government. It will also include such topics as leadership and personality theory, the culture and practice of business, and interpersonal communications. The goal of the course is to bring students to a fuller understanding of the role the individual plays in the relationship of business, government, and society.

You will receive three transferable credits for each class. Students may choose to opt out of the Leadership Scholars Seminar.

Guest lectures on foreign policy and economics offer you the opportunity to meet and question many national and international experts regarding issues facing our nation and the world. Recent speakers have included Dr. George Ayittey, president of the Free Africa Foundation; Paula Dobriansky, Undersecretary of State for Global Affiars; Dr. Walter Williams of George Mason University; and China-policy experts.