Public Service Leadership Pathways

Preparing the next generation of public service leaders for impactful, purpose-driven careers across government, nonprofit, and social impact sectors.
Public Service Leadership Pathways are a suite of programs that, through academic exposure, experiential learning, and high-impact signature events, provide opportunities for undergraduates from all disciplines to grow as public service leaders. These programs 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 Pathways 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
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NextGen Civic Leader Corps
Join NextGen Civic Leader Corps
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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.

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Summer Policy Academy
Learn about SPA
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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

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Learn about upcoming Policy Camps
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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.