America’s founders believed something radical for their time: political freedom depends on economic freedom. Yet most civics classes today treat government and economics as separate subjects. Civics & Economics in Action brings them together.
At CEA, students don’t memorize government structures – they learn how to think using the “economic way of thinking”. They analyze incentives, trade-offs, and unintended consequences behind public policy choices. Topics range from the principles of the Founding Fathers and Supreme Court cases, to local school board decisions. Through hands-on lessons, leadership training, and real-world case studies, students leave CEA with a powerful framework for understanding democracy – and their role in shaping it.
Dates & Locations
University of Pennsylvania
June 30-July 6, 2026
American University
July 20-26, 2026
Admissions Information
- Who Can Apply: Current high school sophomores and juniors
- Prerequisites: None – no prior coursework in economics or civics is required
- What We Look For: Students who are active on their campus or in their community, are intellectually curious, mature, articulate, and who care deeply about their country and civic life
- Application Requirements:
- High School Transcript (including all completed and in-progress coursework)
- Personal Statement responding to two short insight questions
- Application Deadlines:
- Early Deadline: April 1, 2026
- Final Deadline: May 13, 2026