This spring, UVA students have the opportunity to enroll in Leadership and Policy Challenges in Global Disaster and Conflict (LPPP 5559), a practical, experience-based course designed to prepare future policymakers for leadership in humanitarian crises. Taught by a former United Nations official with two decades of experience in humanitarian aid, the course course combines theory and practice through lectures from current humanitarian practitioners and experiential exercises focused on data-driven decision-making, negotiation, ethics, and resilience in complex environments.

The course culminates in a three-day Humanitarian Field Training in rural Clarke County, Virginia, where students will complete a professional simulation designed for State Department officials and global humanitarian responders. Modules include field assessment, communications, security negotiation, and resilience under pressure.

The course meets on Fridays from 12:00–2:30 p.m. and is open by application to all UVA third- and fourth-year undergraduates and Batten MPP students. Apply by October 28 for notification by October 31 via this application form.