As the developmental director of the Emerging Studies Institute (ESI), I am delighted to welcome everyone to our website and to express, on behalf of myself and the ESI staff, our enthusiasm to contribute to the vibrant Georgetown University community.

While the educational landscape is constantly changing, it has never been more dynamic than today. Students are seeking the skills and knowledge necessary to achieve their career goals, some of which extend beyond the traditional classroom setting. Simultaneously, there is growing awareness that many careers or fields of study require expertise in multiple academic areas, heightening the relevance and need for interdisciplinary training. The increasing use of artificial intelligence in schools and workplaces has further accelerated these changes. The introduction of the Emerging Studies Institute is one component of Georgetown’s response to these developments. 

The Institute’s mission is to assist Georgetown University faculty and staff as they develop and launch new programs that address these various challenges. In addition to creating exciting interdisciplinary master’s programs, however, the Institute will also focus on a variety of other programs, including undergraduate-level degree programs and non-degree programs. We are particularly excited at the prospect of drawing on the remarkable talents of Georgetown’s research institutes and centers to engage in the delivery of executive and custom education. For all of these endeavors, the ESI will provide the required logistical support, as well as the associated market research and marketing. 

The future of higher education has never been more uncertain, and success requires that we be creative and innovative when establishing new curriculum. At the Emerging Studies Institute, we look forward to helping our community achieve these goals through devoted collaboration and partnership.

Sincerely,

Francis Vella

Inaugural Director, Emerging Studies Institute

Schedule an appointment with Francis