Orientation and Foundations of McCourt
Prior to beginning their studies, all incoming McCourt students are required to complete the McCourt Foundations course. Foundations is designed to facilitate the transition to graduate school, introduce incoming students to a set of core leadership and communications skills, and catalyze equity-centered policy work and advocacy.
Summer 2026: MPM Program only
Friday, June 5: MPM Foundations course + additional welcome sessions
Monday, June 8: MPM summer classes begin
Summer 2026: EMPL Program only
Friday, June 5 – Saturday, June 6: McCourt Foundations + additional welcome sessions
Monday, June 8: EMPL first day of in-person instruction
Fall 2026: MPP, MIDP, and MS-DSPP programs — Orientation and McCourt Foundations Course
Monday, August 17- Friday, August 21: McCourt Foundations Course (mandatory for all MPP, MIDP, & MS-DSPP)
August 24- August 25: Additional Orientation Sessions
Monday, August 17- Friday, August 21: McCourt Foundations Course (mandatory for all MPP, MIDP, & MS-DSPP)
August 24- August 25: Additional Orientation Sessions
The McCourt Foundations course is mandatory and a graduation requirement for all MPP (including Evening Program), MIDP, and MS-DSPP students. Students working full-time are expected to take off work in order to attend all 5 days, 9:00am- 5:00pm on Monday and Friday, and 9:00am-12:00pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday with optional afternoon and evening activities. Any student not able to participate in Foundations will need to make up the course next year.
Please note that the Office of Academic Affairs & Office of Student Engagement will begin officially communicating with you later this spring when you can expect more information about class scheduling, registration, living in DC, connecting with students, etc.
Please check with Jason McKnight, Associate Dean of Student Affairs, at jm3665@georgetown.edu if you have questions regarding orientation and Foundations.
Immigration Sessions & Welcome Event for International Students
All F-1/ J-1 students must attend an Immigration Session to activate their immigration status. Failure to attend the mandatory session will jeopardize a student’s legal status in the United States. There will be an Immigration Session on Capitol Campus on Tuesday, August 25, from 2:00-3:30pm in the Auditorium of 125 E St on the Lower Level. More information can be found on the OGS webpage .