The Harvard Student Agencies Virtual Academies are 20-hour boot camps designed to immerse high school students in a subject area of their choice. Each course features engaging lectures taught by Harvard students, interactive activities, a final project presentation, and so much more.
The Virtual Government Academies allow students to 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.
There are two Government options:
- 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.
- 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.
These programs are held via Zoom from 12:00pm-4:00pm Eastern Time.
Location(s)
- Remote
Schedule
- One-week sessions in August
Cost/Compensation
- $679
Eligibility Requirements
- High school students in grades 9-12
- High-achieving rising freshmen who are age 13 and up may apply.
Deadline
- Rolling
Application or Entry Requirements
- Completed online application
Notifications of Decisions
- Applications are accepted on a first come, first serve basis
Financial Aid Details
- The financial aid application can be found here.
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
Have other questions?
Harvard Student Agencies (HSA) is a non-profit in Cambridge, Massachusetts with 12 businesses across various industries to provide educational and business opportunities to students. With more than 600 employees, HSA is the largest student run company in the world, striving to defray the costs of education with student wages and inspire the next generation of business leaders.
The Academies is one of HSA’s 12 businesses, providing opportunities for high school students that transcend traditional classroom topics to forge connections between high school students and quality Harvard exploratory courses. Through collaborative work with peers across the globe and access to trained Harvard undergraduate instructors, The Academies offer courses online with over 7,000 students globally.
