Morningstar Institute students are trained through a three part method:
Academic
All Morningstar students are required to take International Economic Development, an upper division course offered by the School of Business. This course examines the underlying economic, social and political causes and continuation of poverty throughout the world and various methods of economic development, including microfinance practices, for alleviating poverty. A portion of the course deals with the practical implimentation issues that they will face as interns in a developing country. Student's that undertake an internship are required to submit an academic paper at the end of their internship for publication.
Analytical
Through researching in class and on their field internships, Morningstar students develop analytical skills that they will use throughout their academic and professional careers. Students are encouraged to document their experiences, both in the classroom and while abroad on their internships.
Practical
Students have the opportunity to gain international experience through Morningstar’s International Internship Program. This program gives students hands-on training in international development. Students will be trained prior to their internship experience in the classroom through the International Economic Development class. After completing the course and submitting an application for the International Internship Program, students will be placed on various international sites, working with existing NGOs in a professional development setting. Morningstar currently has one intern in Uanda working with New Hope Uganda. Active planning is underway for additional internships in Swaziland for the summer of 2010 and investigations are underway for interns to go to Latin America in the future as well.
After completing International field internships students will join the Morningstar Alumni Community and will be invited to continue to research through Morningstar Institute as well as mentoring existing students.