Washington Semester
| Type | Private |
|---|---|
| Established | 1947 |
| Dean | Carola Weil |
Academic staff | 24 |
| Students | 400-700 (per semester) |
| Location | Washington, District of Columbia, United States |
| Campus | Urban |
| Nickname | WSP |
| Website | http://american.edu/spexs |
The Washington Semester Program is an experiential education program that partners with over 250 institutions around the U.S. and the world to bring college students to American University. It is housed on American University's main campus.
The Washington Semester Program operates as part of the School of Professional & Extended Studies at American University. Each week, students spend three days in seminar courses and two days participating in an internship that gives students a unique look at Washington, DC. Rather than just lecture courses, the Washington Semester also invites speakers from various sectors of a particular field to address the class, often from different perspectives.
The Washington Semester Program involves course work, research, seminars, speakers, site visits and internships in government, private and non-profit offices. Five of the program areas offered also include a short study-abroad travel component as part of the semester.
Program Options
Washington Semester Program (Fall & Spring)
- American Politics
- Foreign Policy
- Global Economics & Business*
- International Environment & Development*
- International Law & Organizations*
- Journalism & New Media
- Justice & Law
- The Middle East & World Affairs*
- Peace & Conflict Resolution*
- Transforming Communities & Public Policy
(*Denotes Study Abroad component)
Summer Internship Program
- American Politics
- Community and Social Change
- Economics & International Business
- International Affairs
- Justice & Law
- Journalism & New Media