Online Law and Government Programs
If you are intrigued by law, U.S. Politics, government, or international relations and would like to explore these subjects in-depth before college, here is your chance. Georgetown University now offers pre-college online courses for high school students ages 13 and older. Each course features dynamic video lessons by renowned Georgetown faculty and access to mentors. The program is available year-round, and the online format enables you to take as many courses as you'd like anywhere, anytime, at your own pace.
Program Dates
Multi-length courses available throughout the year
Eligibility
For students ages 13 and up
Individual Course Fees
$1,795
Current Courses Available
Law
How To Think Like an Attorney
Ever been intrigued by a television show or movie involving attorneys and dramatic court cases? Here is your chance to see how the profession works from the inside. Learn how to think like an attorney—how to pose the right questions, evaluate evidence, and make decisions based on fact rather than emotion. Interested in pursuing law, or want to sharpen your critical thinking? This course is a must.
International Relations
How the World Works
Natural disasters. Pandemics. Unconventional warfare. Cyber threats. Learn how our world reacts to disasters. Discover why populist movements arise and how they can threaten democracy. Consider how different nations define human rights, and see how technological advances offer both promise and threat. Explore the field of international relations and consider what your role will be in tomorrow’s world.
International Law
Protecting the World’s Interests
International law began with the Peace of Westphalia in 1648. This course reveals how this complex field evolved. We’ll look at events like the Nuremberg Trials, the Gulf War, and the war in Ukraine; plus border disputes and human rights violations. Learn how treaties are ratified, how international laws are enforced, and how conflicts involving genocide are addressed. Thinking of a future in law or global activism? This course is for you.
Cybersecurity
Protecting Our Digital Future
Natural disasters. Pandemics. Unconventional warfare. Cyber threats. Learn how our world reacts to disasters. Discover why populist movements arise and how they can threaten democracy. Consider how different nations define human rights, and see how technological advances offer both promise and threat. Explore the field of international relations and consider what your role will be in tomorrow’s world.
Leadership
Becoming a Leader: Motivate, Inspire, and Persuade
If great leaders share one thing, it's the ability to motivate people to make decisions that deliver optimal results. This course provides insights on how to build your leadership skills and use them effectively, no matter where life takes you. You’ll explore various leadership styles and the circumstances that call for each, and hear from guest speakers across a range of industries like government, business, finance, medicine, and more.
U.S. Politics and Government
To Form a More Perfect Union
Delve into the American political system and political policy. How does our government adapt to realities like a global pandemic or war; or deal with climate change, economic inequality, or racial injustice? What is the media’s role in these conflicts? Learn how our political system works. Discover potential college majors and career opportunities that provide the foundation to make a difference. If you’re curious about these issues, this course is for you.
Learn About Our Courses
How You Will Benefit
- Courses are available throughout the year—pick subjects that fit your passion and your schedule.
- Suitable for high school students ages 13 and up so you can start exploring your interests early on.
- Experience what it’s like to take courses designed by Georgetown University faculty while you’re still in high school.
- Flexible learning: lectures by professors are delivered through dynamic videos, so you can tune in whenever your schedule allows—the ultimate in flexibility.
- Work with mentors who can support you and answer questions as you deepen your learning experience.
- For each course, earn a Certificate of Completion from Georgetown University for your college application.
Three Learning Advantages Designed for You
Final Capstone Project
All courses culminate in a special Final Capstone Project that allows you to:
- Demonstrate what you’ve learned in a presentation.
- Get feedback from your mentors on your work.
- Choose from a variety of topics covered in your course to show what you’ve learned.
- Use any media you prefer—text, video, photography, PowerPoint.
Mentoring
You’ll receive guidance from a mentor who can support you and answer questions as you deepen your learning experience. You can expect:
- Expertise in your course’s particular field.
- Encouragement and direction on all assignments.
- Inspiration, motivation, and confidence to help you excel in your studies.
- Brainstorming to help you prepare for your Final Capstone Project.
Flexible Learning
- 100% online learning that works with your schedule.
- Flexible format: you’ll learn through video lectures. Tune in anytime that works for you.
- Multiple courses can be taken to maximize your learning experience.
- 20 to 30 hours of total instruction and activities per course, including engaging multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support from mentors.
How to Apply
It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Just provide some basic information and tell us why you wish to take this program.
Note: Please submit all application materials in English.
Begin the guided process. It should take only a few minutes to answer the questions.
Begin the process
Want to Know More?
Sign up for more information and we’ll be in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will you be graded? What are assignments like? How much time do you have to turn around a project? When do you find out if you’re admitted? Find answers to your questions here.
Answers to Your Questions HereScholarships
We offer need-based scholarships in each cohort to students exhibiting high potential and an inability to pay full tuition. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship but you:
- Haven’t applied to the program, complete your application now. The scholarship application is included.
- Applied to the program and didn’t fill out a scholarship request, resume your application and click “Apply for Scholarship”.
- Are unsure about whether or not you applied for a scholarship, reach out to us at support@precollegeonline.georgetown.edu for assistance.
The University reserves the right to modify the course as may become necessary.