Explore the Gerald R. Ford Institute for Leadership in Public Policy and Service
Connect with the Director
Eddie Visco
Director
Ford Institute
Email Eddie
Schedule a Campus Visit Submit Your Deposit Connect with Ford
Connect with the Director
Eddie Visco
Director
Ford Institute
Email Eddie
Schedule a Campus Visit Submit Your Deposit Connect with Ford
Interested in making an impact in your community, city, region, or the world?
By joining the prestigious Ford Institute, you will have access to a thriving network of alumni and current students, dedicated professional resources, and targeted classroom and applied learning opportunities designed to prepare you for a career in advocacy and public service.
The Institute’s curriculum centers on the knowledge and skill development necessary for effective leadership on a variety of issues, with classes focused on public service, political science, policy, ethics, communications, and more.
Your participation culminates with a concentration on your diploma.
Internships
It’s your chance to go out into the real world and implement what you learned in the classroom.
As a student in the Gerald Ford Institute for Public Service, you’ll complete a one-unit internship tailored toward your specific career interests. Placements are secured through our strong alumni network, partnerships with national and international programs, and personal or professional connections.
Ford students frequently find internships in federal government, state and local government, judicial offices, and nonprofits, or take their learning further through an international program.
InternshipsThe Ford Institute allowed me to explore my interests in the policy world through classes, trips, internships and meeting like-minded politically engaged people. I’ve made connections with students, alumni, and faculty. Ford lectures have provided me valuable information about graduate and law school. Speaking with an Albion College alumna was especially insightful as it made me seriously consider getting an MPA or an MPP.
Requirements
Through the Institute, students can choose to pursue a major in public policy or a concentration in public policy and service or law, justice, and society. Community service, lectures and events, skill-based badges, and an internship or off-campus experience are required no matter your track.