A cohort-based program examining politics, democracy, and civic responsibility
Join us for Engaged Citizenship: Yale Summer Session's Program in Politics, a five-week, cohort-based experience that brings together college students and advanced high school students eager to understand the political forces shaping our world!
Immerse yourself in Yale's vibrant intellectual community as you live and learn alongside peers who share your passion for political debate and civic leadership. Through two dynamic seminar courses led by Yale faculty, along with guest speakers, field trips, and film screenings, students will explore the pressing issues, historical debates, and global perspectives that define the political landscape today. Whether your future lies in public service, policymaking, advocacy, or engaging as an informed voter, this program empowers students to think deeply and critically about complex issues, to communicate their ideas with clarity and purpose, and to contribute meaningfully as engaged citizens.
[point] All program participants enroll in two courses: Writing about Politics and Nationalism and Democracy. Since these courses are paired as part of the Politics Program, it is not possible to register for only one of these courses.
Together, these shared courses and experiences create a cohesive and immersive program that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and perspective needed to participate thoughtfully and responsibly in civic life—both at Yale and beyond.
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What You’ll Gain
Students gain a deeper understanding of politics today through paired courses that connect political ideas, debate, and civic responsibility. The program fosters a close-knit community of peers who are curious, engaged, and eager to challenge one another through discussion and collaboration. Participants work directly with Yale faculty committed to mentorship, rigorous inquiry, and thoughtful dialogue, while developing transferable skills in analytical writing, argumentation, and critical thinking. Beyond the classroom, students experience life at Yale—living on campus and taking part in the intellectual and social rhythms of the university.
Program Costs
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition for a two-credit program | $10,705 |
| Program fee | $100 |
*The program fee covers additional costs specific to this program such as field trip transportation, cohort dinner event, merchandise, etc.
For other fees and residential costs, please visit our Tuition and Fees page. All tuition and fees, including room and meal charges, must be paid in full three weeks before the program start date.
For information about summer funding, please visit our Financial Assistance page.
Application Information
To apply, review the application requirements and fill out the Yale Summer Session application. The Politics program is offered under Yale Summer Session B course listings.
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