A public policy program for teens on a university campus in North Carolina

The government today influences nearly every aspect of our lives, shaping key issues such as public health, criminal justice, gun rights, immigration, reproductive rights, drug use, education, and disaster preparedness. This course offers an in-depth exploration of the laws, regulations, actions, and funding priorities established by governmental entities to address these complex topics. Through engaging discussions and hands-on experiences, students develop the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to understand and analyze public policy in real-world contexts.

Students will gain insight into how social media impacts political campaigns and movements, while also learning about the various factors and tools that guide government decisions. The course emphasizes critical thinking and professional analysis of social, political, economic, and bureaucratic systems. Participants will engage with experts, participate in collaborative projects using social science methods, and apply policy analysis to practical problems at local, regional, and global levels. Past excursions, including a city tour of Durham and a visit to the North Carolina State Legislative Building, have provided valuable firsthand experiences observing policy impacts on housing, transportation, and legislative processes in action.