Experiential learning at Harvard Kennedy School is an immersive experience both in the classroom and the field. Students, faculty, and state and local project partners bring together their unique skills and experiences to explore critical community issues from many angles. The research they produce is powerful, with an impact that extends far beyond a single course.

Building from the pioneering work of Professor Linda Bilmes with her Greater Boston Applied Field Lab, which started in 2005 with generous support from Jerry and Phyllis Rappaport, experiential learning opportunities through the Rappaport Institute have grown to include several courses that expose students to the real-world policy challenges of their state and local government clients. Learn more about our experiential learning opportunities below.

Experiential Learning in the News
 

Assistant Professor of Public Policy and Taubman affiliated faculty member Justin de Benedictis-Kessner hits the road with an inaugural field lab in urban politics.

 

Whether by working with mayors, training new leaders, or leading cutting-edge research, Harvard Kennedy School is helping cities improve people’s daily lives. Read this article from HKS Magazine featuring the Greater Boston Applied Field Lab. 

Reports & Publications

Read a selection of reports and publications from the Rappaport Institute's experiential learning courses and field labs.