Why should I enroll?

The Duke D.C. Summer Institute on Law and Policy offers a unique opportunity to gain a more detailed and nuanced understanding of the constitutional, statutory, and regulatory frameworks within which much public policy is formulated and implemented in the United States. 

Who should take these courses?

Both legal and non-legal practitioners will benefit from the theoretical and practical insights offered in the Institute’s courses. The Institute is particularly designed for professionals who work in public policy, politics, financial regulation, health care, and related fields, and wish to deepen their knowledge of the legal frameworks in which they work.  Recent college graduates and/or undergraduate students who are considering law school or a career in these fields would also benefit from the DC Summer Institute courses.

What time commitment is necessary?

Participants are expected to attend and actively engage in each of eight, 90-minute class sessions, and to complete reading and writing assignments.  Faculty for the Institute recognize that most, if not all, participants are also employed in full-time positions outside of the program, and the workload will be appropriately tailored to the time constraints that participants will face.

When and where are the classes?

During each two-week session (July 8-July 18 and July 22-August 1), classes will be held Monday through Thursday evenings, at either 5:45-7:15 p.m. or 7:30-9:00 p.m., at the Duke in D.C. offices at 1201 New York Ave., NW, Suite 1110, near Metro Center.

Is housing provided?

Because the Duke D.C. Summer Institute is designed for those already working in Washington, either for the summer or year-round, participants are expected to have their own housing.

How much does it cost?

Enrollment in one class for one two-week session is $500; each additional course is $300.  Course materials are included at no additional cost.  Where appropriate, participants are encouraged to seek continuing education funding from their employers.

Am I guaranteed the class I want?

Space permitting, yes — but enrollment is rolling, so those interested in a specific course are encouraged to register as soon as possible.  Participants will be asked to rank order their course preferences, and we expect nearly all participants to have the opportunity to enroll in their top choice(s).

Can I get credit?

Upon successful completion of a course, all participants will receive a certificate endorsed by the Dean and Faculty Director.  Approval for CLE credit is pending in certain states; attorneys who register should indicate the state in which they would seek CLE credit, and we will pursue approval if it hasn’t already been received.  Current undergraduate or graduate students should petition their home institutions for transfer academic credit.

Who can enroll?

Legislative and executive branch aides, attorneys and professionals working in fields related to government and policy, recent college graduates interested in pursuing a career in law or policy, current graduate school students in law and related policy areas, rising undergraduate juniors and seniors, and students and professionals from abroad are all encouraged to enroll in the program. 

How do I enroll?

Enrollment will be accepted on a continuing basis until the program is fully subscribed.  Please e-mail dcinstitute@law.duke.edu with questions about space remaining in a specific course.