2026 Morven in Summer


What is Morven in Summer (MIS)?

Morven in Summer (MIS) is an expanded offering of the former Morven Summer Institute. MIS is an innovative sustainability-focused teaching, research, and engagement program for students and community members hosted on Morven’s 3,000 acres, a key landscape for multidisciplinary learning at the University of Virginia. 

MIS 2026 occurs during Session 1. Students can register for a 3.0-credit course during either Block A (May 18-30) or Block B (June 1-13). Class times are 10:00 am-3:30 pm Monday through Saturday.

There is no special application process to participate in Morven in Summer. UVA students may enroll in courses in SIS during summer session enrollment; non-UVA students should follow directions for Visiting Students.


MIS Block B: June 1-13, 2026

PLAP 3160/GSVS 3160: Politics of Food, Paul Freedman

This course looks at the production and consumption of food in a political context. We will explore legislation, regulation, and other policies that affect the food system and examine their implications for the environment, public health and democratic politics. We will look closely at controversies over agricultural subsidies, labeling requirements, farming practices, food safety, advertising and education.

Course counts for Politics, Environmental Thought & Practice, and Global Studies.

Tuition and Fees

MIS tuition is based on whether a student is an undergraduate or graduate, and in-state or out-of-state. The program is 3.0 credit hours of tuition plus the comprehensive fee.


Morven Faculty in the News

Read transcript

A&S Students Get an Early Start in J-Term, featuring Prof. Paul Freedman's Politics of Food class.

About the Morven Sustainability Lab