Online Law and Government Programs
If you are intrigued by law, U.S. Politics, or international relations and would like to explore it 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 study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace.
Program Dates
Multi-length courses available throughout the year
Eligibility
For students ages 13 and up
Fees
$1495
Current Courses Available
Law
Explore the Field of Law
Law: How To Think Like an Attorney
You may have 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. In this course, you will learn how to think like an attorney—how to pose the right questions, evaluate evidence, and make decisions based on fact rather than emotion. If you’re interested in pursuing law or want to sharpen your critical thinking skills, this course is a must.
International Relations
How Does the World Interconnect?
International Relations: How the World Works
Natural disasters. Pandemics. Unconventional warfare. Cyber threats. Learn how our world works in light of current problems and possibilities. Discover why populist movements arise and how they can threaten democracy. Find out how different nations define human rights. 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
Take a Journey Through the Evolution of International Law
International Law: Protecting the World’s Interests
International law has been in existence since the Peace of Westphalia in 1648. Here is a unique opportunity to learn how this complex field has grown. We’ll look at events such as the Nuremberg Trials, the Gulf War, the war in Ukraine; plus, everything from border disputes and human rights violations to questions of who has jurisdiction over land, sea, and air. Discover how treaties are ratified, how international laws are enforced, and how conflicts that involve genocide are addressed. If you envision a future in law, international negotiations, or global activism, this is the place to start.
Politics and Government
Study How the U.S. Political System Works
U.S. Politics and Government: To Form a More Perfect Union
Delve into the relationship of the American political system with the U.S. government. What shapes political policy? How does the U.S. government adapt to realities on the ground like a global pandemic or war? How does the government deal with issues such as climate change, economic inequality, or racial injustice? What is the media’s role in all of these important topics? If you have ever been curious about these issues, this course is for you. Learn about the inner workings of our political system and discover potential college majors and career opportunities that will provide you with the foundation to make a difference.
Cybersecurity
Discover How We Police The Internet
Cybersecurity: Protecting Our Digital Future
Identity theft, ransomware, phishing, denial of service. The threats are as varied as the targets themselves—banks, energy grids, healthcare systems, large businesses and small, and people, too. As a result, the cybersecurity industry has grown rapidly. If you are curious about this fascinating field, here’s a course for you. Learn how cyberspace evolved and how cyberattackers take advantage of vulnerabilities on the web. Discover the protective technologies designed to minimize exposure, and participate in a group discussion around hacking. If you see a future for yourself in cybersecurity, this is a great place to start.
Learn About Our Courses
How You Will Benefit
- Online courses are available throughout the year—pick a subject that fits 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 a course 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.
- Earn a Certificate of Completion from Georgetown University for your college application.
Three Learning Advantages Designed for You
Final Project
All online courses culminate in a special final 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:
- 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 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.
- 20 to 30 hours of total instruction and course work, including engaging multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support from mentors.
Apply Now For The Next Available Course
November 6 - December 4
Cybersecurity: Protecting Our Digital Future
Length: 4 weeks
Cost: $1495
Application Deadline: Sunday, October 30, 2022
November 6 - December 4
Law: How To Think Like an Attorney
Length: 4 weeks
Cost: $1495
Application Deadline: Sunday, October 30, 2022
November 6 - December 4
International Relations: How the World Works
Length: 4 weeks
Cost: $1495
Application Deadline: Sunday, October 30, 2022
All course options have the same educational content, learning materials, and number of assignments. We are offering a condensed version of the course in order to accommodate students’ individual schedules.
How to Apply
It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Our application asks you to provide the following:
- Basic contact information for you and your parent or guardian.
- Why you wish to take this course, and a bit of your story, through writing, video, photos—any media you prefer.
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, reach out to us at support@precollegeonline.georgetown.edu for assistance.
- 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.