Preparing the next generation of public service leaders for impactful, purpose-driven careers across government, nonprofit, and social impact sectors.
Public Service Leadership Development Pathway — a suite of programs that, through academic exposure, experiential learning, and high-impact signature events, opportunities for undergraduates from all disciplines to grow as public service leaders. The pathway offers programs that build skills and leadership capacity, while providing spaces for individuals with a public service mindset to connect, network, and build community.
Developing Leaders for the Common Good
The Evans School’s Public Service Leadership Development Pathway offers a suite of programs and experiences designed for undergraduate and early-career professionals who aspire to make a difference in public service. Students gain knowledge, professional skills, and networks to pursue careers in:
- Government and public administration
- Nonprofit organizations
- Social ventures and mission-driven enterprises
Programs and Experiences
NextGen Civic Leader Corps
Cultivating Civic Mindsets and Leadership Skills
In partnership with the UW Office of Undergraduate Academic Affairs, the NextGen Civic Leader Corps engages students in developing civic awareness and exploring careers in public service through:
- Academic coursework in policy and leadership
- Experiential learning such as workshops and community service
- Signature events connecting students with practitioners and like minded peers.
NextGen supports students in discovering and pursuing meaningful, purpose-driven public service careers. NextGen is part of the Next Generation Service Corps, a national network of 27 universities and colleges.
Summer Policy Academy
A Three-Week Immersive Experience in Public Policy and Leadership
The Summer Policy Academy (SPA) is a fully funded, three-week immersive program introducing undergraduate students to the world of public service. Offered through the Volcker Alliance’s NextGen Service initiative, SPA is a collaboration between the University of Washington’s Evans School of Public Policy & Governance, the University of Berkeley’s Goldman School of Public Policy, and the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs.
Program Highlights:
- One week in Washington, D.C.
- Two weeks in Seattle
- Focus on professional development, networking, and hands-on learning
Public Policy Camp
A One-Day Introduction to Public Policy and Service Careers
In collaboration with the Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management (APPAM), Policy Camp offers undergraduate students—especially those new to the field—an engaging introduction to public policy and public service careers.