Close Up programs are unlike any other!
Using DC as a living classroom, students make personal connections with the people and institutions that embody our nation’s past and present.
With the help of our Program Instructors, students learn more about history and government while considering a variety of viewpoints. Close Up’s once-in-a-lifetime opportunities are designed to inspire and empower students to become active participants in our democracy.
Learn about American democracy first-hand during this in-depth exploration of the nation’s capital.
Learn More >Examine the relationship between business and government with visits to two of America’s most important cities!
Learn More >Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience in DC and other historic sites on the east coast with this fully customizable program.
Learn More >Discover our nation’s diverse heritage on this DC program geared to immigrant and migrant students.
Learn More >Explore these programs designed for individual students who want in-depth knowledge of specific policy issues.
Learn More >Better understand the evolution of American democracy with visits to our nation’s most historic cities.
Learn More >Learn about the power of foreign policy through an international relations simulation in the heart of Hawaii!
Learn More >Consider the issues facing Indian Country through one of three exclusive programs offered in the nation’s capital.
Learn More >Start a local program focused on state and local government issues in your area!
Learn More >Develop the skills for a lifetime of active citizenship.
Our specialized curriculum uses the principles of cooperative learning and experiential, issue-centered education to inspire and empower students. We focus on:
Looking for an innovative virtual program for students?
Led by Close Up Instructors, our virtual experiences help students reach outside of their homes, their schools, and their communities to broaden their perspectives.Close Up engages young people in issue discussions to encourage them create concrete plans for community action, and expose them to new people, opinions, and world-views in a balanced way.
I’m truly blown away by what Close Up’s been able to accomplish. in the last two weeks during IMPACT 2020…
The material seems very high level, and my daughter’s been very motivated to participate every day. I wanted to be sure to commend the staff on providing such a great experience!
I learned that there’s a huge network of people with the same goals and drive as me…
and that our collaboration really could make a difference. It gave me hope for the future of our communities and our nation!
Close Up is a positive experience for students…
seeing themselves as having the power to influence the democratic process.
I plan to introduce Close Up’s professional development to the teachers I work with…
and use this as a part of my school’s requirement that students take action on issues of local, national, and international importance.