Special Programs

Sanford features a wide array of special programs for students at every level of education.

Undergraduate Special Programs

Duke in DC

Live, study, and work in the nation’s capital. Connect classroom study to experiential learning oriented around policy innovation and public leadership. High-profile practitioners. Internship required.

Hart Leadership Program

A distinctive Sanford School program offered to all Duke undergraduates, challenging students to practice the art of leadership in public life.

Study Abroad in Glasgow

Open to all Duke majors - experience the University of Glasgow, the fourth-oldest university in the English-speaking world. Start by visiting London, meetings with members of Parliament and more.

Graduate level special programs

Duke Global Policy Program in Geneva

Prepare to tackle the world’s most pressing policy challenges. One-week dynamic course in the heart of Europe where diplomacy and development meet. Learn how international and non-governmental organizations address today’s global challenges with course work and site visits to UN agencies and Geneva-based institutions.

Duke-UNC Rotary Peace Center

One of only seven such centers in the world, the Duke-UNC Rotary Peace Center supports 20 fully-funded Rotary Peace Fellows, 10 MIDP and 10 UNC, based on their ability to have a significant, positive impact on world peace and conflict resolution during their future careers.

Coverdell Peace Corps Fellows Program

Financial assistance for RPCVs (Returned Peace Corps Volunteers). The Master of International Development Policy (MIDP) and the Master of Public Policy (MPP) programs are official Coverdell Peace Corps Fellow partners.

Available for both undergraduate and graduate students

Margolis Scholars in Health Policy

A prestigious program for Duke students who demonstrate strong commitment to a career in health policy and management, as well as leadership potential to improve health policy. Scholars are engaged in the program for one to two years.

Client-Focused Opportunities

Sanford offers many ways for graduate and undergraduate students to gain additional real-world experience in policymaking.

Policy Lab: Students research policy questions for policymakers, issue advocates, and other change agents.

CX Lab: Students use human-centered design principles to help organizations improve the customer and employee experience.

Sanford Board Leadership Initiative: MPP students serve as non-voting members on nonprofit boards.

Browse all Opportunities