Offering exceptional students a unique learning experience focused on the serious study of politics.

Summer Fellowship Program

For Undergraduates

Applications are now open. Early decision closes January 9th, Regular decision closes March 2nd.

Nominate a Candidate

Teachers and Mentors

Do you know an exceptional student or young professional who is interested in politics, foreign policy political philosophy, or American government? Nominate a candidate now.

Certificate 2026 Fellowship

Policy Certificate Program

For Early Career Professionals

Location: Washington D.C.
Fully funded
Certificate awarded upon completion

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Hudson Institute Political Studies offers an education in political theory and practice that broadens and deepens understanding of public policy and American political principles. Rather than a set of answers, Hudson Institute Political Studies offers a framework for political thought and strategic analysis that equips students to seriously confront the challenges facing this nation and the world. By studying the most consequential ideas of the greatest political minds, students seek to determine--and meet--the demands of a free society and a just republic. Hudson Institute Political Studies includes two core programs: an undergraduate Summer Fellowship in theory and practice and a graduate level Policy Certificate Program on pressing current issues. Beyond academic programs, the robust Political Studies alumni community promotes active intellectual and political life guided by the contemplation of eternal questions.

Summer Fellowship

Hudson Institute Political Studies offers an intensive six-week summer fellowship in political theory and practice. In 2026, for the first time, we are proud to host two sessions of our program:

Session I: May 24 – July 5

Session II: June 28 – August 7

The program is built around four core components:

Rigorous seminars led by master teachers on topics in political theory and public policy.

A series of policy workshops led by policy analysts and experienced government officials.

A distinguished speaker series where national leaders from government, business, journalism, the military, and the academy provide unmatched insight into the true nature of public service and the country’s most pressing issues.

A series of outings and events, where students travel to places of national and historical interest in order to view politics through other lenses.

Summer Fellows participate in a six-week session, receive a $3,000 stipend, and are provided complementary housing.

Policy Certificate

The Policy Certificate Program gathers talented early career professionals for advanced study of American foreign and domestic policy, and national security led by policy experts and experienced government officials. Each of Hudson’s policy certification workshops covers a distinct region or topic ranging from military strategy and technology to energy security and criminal justice reform.

Program Overview:

Throughout five intensive expert-led seminar modules, candidates learn the intellectual tradition, historical background and political terrain of a policy area.

During interactive simulations candidates test their skills of negotiation, strategic planning, and crisis management.

At the Keynote Dinner a distinguished expert in the field will give an off-the-record talk illustrating his or her approach to political strategy and effective policy planning.

Candidates will showcase their newly gained policy insight by completing a capstone project: their choice of an op-ed or policy memo