Semester in Washington
A career-defining experience in the heart of D.C.
If you’re driven to understand how ideas become action, there’s no better classroom than Washington, D.C.
GW’s Semester in Washington program places you at the center of the institutions, organizations and communities shaping policy, advocacy and public life in the U.S. and abroad.
Through a customizable blend of immersive coursework, project-based labs and a professional internship, the program shows you how decisions are made, how power operates across sectors, and how complex challenges are navigated in real time.
You won’t just study Washington; you’ll step into the work that moves it forward.
Now accepting applications for Summer 2026.
An Immersive Experience in Washington, D.C.
Where Coursework Meets Real-World Impact
Semester in Washington helps you build the skills employers value most—strategic communication, analytical thinking, collaboration and professional confidence—while making an impact in the city where decisions are made.
- Get an Inside Look: Learn from faculty working in politics, communications and advocacy, with experiences that extend beyond the classroom into campaigns, legislative offices, media and community organizations.
- Get Involved: Apply your learning through internships and project-based coursework focused on real-world challenges across Washington, D.C.
- Get Connected: Build your network by working alongside peers and engaging with leaders through exclusive events and intentional professional development opportunities.
