DC is Our Classroom

The Washington Semester Program isn't just an opportunity for students to intern in Washington, DC for the semester. It's a unique opportunity to be part of a global network of doers, thinkers, innovators, and change-makers. Through intensive academic seminars at American University and specially-tailored internship opportunities throughout DC, students apply their newfound knowledge to the real world - day in and day out. Truly, the city is their classroom, and WSP is their gateway to professional and academic excellence.

Internship

No matter what your academic interests, you’ll find the ideal internship with guidance from our Experiential Education team. Our program has placed students in internships for over 70 years, ranging from government to nonprofit organizations and established corporations to start-ups around the region. We are positive that your internship will fit your goals.

Your internship through the Washington Semester Program won’t just be answering phones and filing. You will gain substantive real-world skills while doing rewarding work as a member of your organization. In addition, you will expand your network and acquire valuable experience that distinguishes you from other students at your home college and in future positions.

Seminar

Your seminar is not just a lecture! At AU’s Washington Semester Program, you will spend two days a week with your professor, who will introduce you to new concepts and challenge your perspectives. You will have the opportunity to meet with respected experts, either as guests in the classroom or on-site visits to their organizations in the DC area.

What Sets Us Apart

Academic Seminars

Earn 12-17 American University credits that you transfer back to your home university.
Learn from guest speakers who are at the top of their fields.
Benefit from site visits to Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, NGOs, and international nonprofit organizations.

Internships

Intern at a diverse range of organizations, government agencies, businesses, or Fortune 500 companies in the DC-area.
Unsurpassed experience working with college students coming to DC for internships.
Professional internships, in which you will gain practical knowledge of a career field.

Career Guidance

Comprehensive career guidance toward solidifying your career plan.
Individual feedback on your resume, LinkedIn profile, and professional correspondence.
Guided training on communication and navigating professional events.

Networking, Events, and Services

International and DC connections by way of your internship and networking events.
Opportunities to make personalized connections with professional mentors.
Access to AU events, such as Orientation, an internship fair, and Professional Development Day.
AU student services & resources and living on campus.

Hot Off the Press!

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Kami Simmons, a recent graduate from Columbia Journalism School, is a WSP alumna. From interning at the Obama White House, to interning at CNN and Voice of America, she's a self-proclaimed "Renaissance Woman."

Discovering a Passion for Peace Building

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Hear the alumni story of Dr. Joseph Young, an AU Associate Professor and Washington Semester Program alum! He sheds light on the benefit of experiential learning for DC-based college students in today's world.