Schar School of Policy and Government

A new study coauthored by PhD candidate Julianna J. Thomson analyzes religious rhetoric in a setting where it can be wildly effective—on the floor of Congress. See what the research shows about “Sacred Speech.”

Meet the former governor who is teaching a class on “reforming democracies.” Ricardo Rosselló’s new course introduces crisis leadership to policy.

Think think tanks are just for the pros? At the Sycamore Institute’s campus branch, undergraduates tackle national security issues with the same polish and professionalism as career experts. See how to join.

Schar School senior Erika Burkard was determined to intern with a law firm. And she’s glad she did. See how she did it and the important lessons she learned from the experience.

A roundup of recent media appearances by Schar School faculty, students, and staff for Schar School in the News: August 4th - 8th, 2025.

A roundup of recent media appearances by Schar School faculty, students, and staff for Schar School in the News: July 28th to August 1st, 2025.

Internships are an important aspect of higher education. At the Schar School, longstanding relationships with key institutions and decisionmakers can lead to fulfilling careers. Here’s a personal internship story, as told by Dean Mark J. Rozell.

Former Virginia governor Robert (Bob) McDonnell is now a Schar School Distinguished Visiting Professor of Practice. See what the veteran politician brings to the classroom and public forums.

A new study led by Schar School faculty uncovers a troubling trend: some lawmakers face disproportionate challenges in effectively representing their constituents. What can be done to address these barriers?

Here is your chance to sign up for courses taught by rock star professors and practitioners—a sitting judge and a former governor, for instance—in classes you can only find at the Schar School.