Inspiring public service, civic engagement, and leadership for nearly 60 years
Our mission is to engage students, particularly undergraduates, with academics, politicians, activists, and policymakers on a non-partisan basis to inspire them to consider careers in politics and public service. Founded in 1966 as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy, the Institute strives to promote greater understanding and cooperation between academia and public affairs.
This Fall in the
JFK Jr. Forum
More Events
Programs for Undergraduates
The Institute of Politics is home to fifteen programs in politics and public service service for Harvard undergraduates. Plan our JFK Jr. Forum series, help one of our resident fellows, write for our political journal, participate in the nation's oldest collegiate debating society, organize the campus "get out the vote" operation, and so much more.
Internships &
Career Services
The IOP Director's Internship, Summer Stipend, and Senior Start-up programs make it possible for more than 200 Harvard undergraduates and recent graduates to take fully-paid summer internships or to help get started on a career in government, politics, journalism, and other public service roles each year.
Meet Our
Student Leadership
Students play a critical role in the leadership of the IOP, determining our programming and priorities and innovating to expand the reach of our work.
Meet our elected Executive Team and the chairs of our student programs who comprise the Student Advisory Committee.
