The Semester in D.C. program is open to students who will be Juniors or Seniors during the Fall semester. International students are eligible to apply. 

Selection Criteria

• High academic achievement (3.0 and above)

• Relevant coursework at the 200/300 levels in departments such as politics, international relations, or courses in the Nexus law, public policy and human rights track.

• Experience in a public service field through an internship, work, or volunteer experience, or in student government; or a leadership role or active participation in a political or advocacy-related student organization;

• Interest in a future career in politics, policy, advocacy, government, or nonprofits/NGOs.

• Strong letter of recommendation from a faculty advisor that describes the student’s readiness to undertake a rigorous semester in Washington, D.C.

• Applications should demonstrate why and how the MHC Semester in DC program fits into a students academic and/or future plans

Program participants receive a total of 13 course credits and work at an internship three to four days a week (approximately 20-24 hours per week). 

In addition to work experience, you will be enrolled in:

• Two multidisciplinary seminars (8 credits total) taught by American University faculty and Washington area experts that cover topics such as American politics, foreign policy, global economics and business, public health, international law, journalism and new media, and justice, racial disparity, and law.

• An independent study (4 credits), taught by the faculty director of MHC Semester in D.C.

• An internship course (1 credit) to prepare, secure, and support student success at a D.C.-based  internship in an area of interest. Recent internships have been in congressional offices, federal agencies, think tanks, advocacy and social justice organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and consultant firms in areas such as health policy, political communications, and international regulations. The program cannot guarantee paid internships.