The Regent Program

The Regent Program is a two-week program designed to enhance the policy debater's theory knowledge and ability to research, as well devote considerable time to skill building. The program is open to debaters with all levels of experience. Labs are divided according to experience and skill to maximize learning, and MUDI faculty place tremendous emphasis on educational development. Although this program is the preferred institute of our top debaters, this program is also best for the beginner. It is the added time for skill development that makes this MUDI's most well attended program.

Download The Regent Schedule for 2008

The first week of the program focuses on theory comprehension and research. In addition to one or two theory presentations each day, participants will meet in labs to discuss lectures, strategize their own research, and create position files. By the end of the first week, each lab will have researched, developed and indexed on average two affirmative cases (with corresponding case negative evidence), one disadvantage, and topicality briefs and/or other off case positions. Advanced labs complete multiple affirmatives, multiples disadvantages, and counterplan and kritik positions. In all, students across the entire program contribute to the body of evidence produced, and every member of the Regent program receives all files - a distinctive advantage to attending MUDI!

The second week turns theory into practice. Participants spend part of the week refining arguments already written and finishing new arguments started over the weekend. Participants then engage in a series of speaking drills, stop-action debates, and numerous full practice rounds. In addition, participants compete in at least six debates critiqued by MUDI faculty, as well as a host of state and regional debate experts. The emphasis of the second week is skill development, a requisite for beginners and advanced debaters alike.

Commuter Option: Although a great deal of work and community building occurs in the evening, MUDI does offer a commuter option. Commuters arrive at 9am and may leave at 8pm most days (a complete schedule is made available at registration).