Why Choose Fels?
A world-class university: Fels students have full access to the University of Pennsylvania, a globally renowned Ivy League institution. Students can attend the myriad cultural and sporting events that take place each year, participate in student groups and intramural sports teams, attend lectures across the university, and take advantage of Penn’s many nationally-ranked graduate programs.
A world-class city: Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, is an ideal location to learn about the public sector. Fels students are actively engaged in the greater Philadelphia community through internships, volunteer opportunities, and civic groups. Philadelphia offers all the amenities of a big city. It is conveniently situated midway between the nation’s economic capital, New York, and its political capital, Washington DC. It is also a short drive from the New Jersey shore, the Pocono’s ski resorts, and a vast array of other outdoor recreational attractions.
A proven approach: To help students develop the leadership capabilities needed to get results, the Fels curriculum is based on a dual competency framework that balances the fundamentals of good public administration along with the experience and political savvy needed to get things done. Fels classes incorporate theory and skill development in such topics as performance management, public finance and budgeting, and policy development, while also providing opportunities to analyze and prepare for the challenges and constraints inherent to government and non-profit organizations.
A small size: The Fels student body is comprised of about 70 full-time and 70 executive students--big enough to include individuals with diverse backgrounds, political beliefs, and professional interests, but small enough to enable personalized attention from faculty and staff regarding course selection, internship placement, and career guidance. Housed in an historic century-old mansion, Fels has a distinctively warm feel, and students form strong relationships that last well beyond their time at Fels.
An outstanding alumni network: Fels alumni are a committed and loyal group of individuals who can be found in all parts of the public sector. They often serve as resources for students during job and internship searches. Alumni return to the Fels mansion to serve as speakers for the weekly Distinguished Lecture Series, and they gather with students at regular events on campus.