Experiential Learning Programs

Eisenhower Institute programs provide an immersive, hands-on experience that develops practical skills to prepare students for a lifetime of public, private, and non-profit service. In a 2021 survey, 93% of employers identified teamwork and complex problem-solving as key skills for success. A recent survey of 200+ employers found that Gettysburg College graduates outperform their peers in these and other must-have career skills.

EI's programs allow students to learn and practice enduring skills for jobs that haven't even been imagined yet. Our participants meet with experts, communicate in teams, analyze data and apply critical thinking to develop creative solutions to public policy problems. We emphasize project-based learning to create future leaders who inspire the world to meaningful action.

Full Year 2025-2026

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Strategy & Leadership in Transformational Times

Develop strategic thinking and leadership skills by studying key global conflicts, with a focus on WWI and WWII, to apply insights to contemporary challenges.

Learn more about Strategy & Leadership in Transformational Times

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Environmental Leadership

Explore politics, power, justice, and the environment in this year-long program with Professor Howard Ernst of the U.S. Naval Academy.  

Learn more about Environmental Leadership

Fall Semester 2025

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Building America: Eisenhower's Interstate System

Explore the societal consequences of American transportation, its history, and its unequal impact, culminating in a policy proposal to address its harms.

Learn more about Building America: Eisenhower's Interstate System

Global Focus: Competing with China 2023 Participants

Global Focus: Competing with China

Explore the evolving U.S.-China competition in politics, economics, and policy through expert discussions, historical analysis, and interactive simulations.

Learn more about Global Focus: Competing with China

Fall and Spring Semester 2025-2026

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Inside Washington

Explore how current political challenges are reshaping checks and balances and the balance of power in U.S. governance.

Learn more about Inside Washington

Spring Semester 2025

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Emerging Threats in National Security

Examine non-traditional threats to national security from a new perspective.

Learn more about Emerging Threats in National Security

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Regions Matter

Explore why regional economies evolve differently, what that means for our politics, and look at how nations are bringing growth and opportunity to regions navigating an economic transition.

Learn more about Regions Matter

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Media & Elections

Learn how US and German media influence political perceptions and examine strategies for fostering fact-based public discourse.

Learn more about Media & Elections.

Study Trips 2025

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Gender and Leadership

Explore intersections between gender and leadership in business and government.

Learn more about Gender and Leadership

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Inside Civil Rights

Explore President Eisenhower’s role integrating schools and other civil rights moments that impact social justice today.

Learn more about Inside Civil Rights