Political Science Washington Semester -- FALL SEMESTER

Open to all majors
Get a head start on your career
Pursue a full semester-long political internship plus upper-level coursework
Live in JMU-arranged housing in one of D.C.'s finest neighborhoods

The Washington Semester program enables students to explore the wealth of political and cultural opportunities available in the Washington, DC area. The program includes semester-length internships, political science courses, panel discussions by people in various professions, cultural activities, and networking opportunities with JMU alumni working in the DC area.

Courses
Participants maintain full-time student status by combining the 6-credit internship course (POSC 495W) with two 3-credit courses in political science (POSC 351W and POSC 301W). Courses are taught on-site by JMU instructors. Students not majoring in political science, international affairs, or public administration should consult with their departments about how the internship and coursework fit their academic plans; some departments may be willing to arrange course substitutions. Note: Participants must remain full-time students for the duration of the program.

Housing

JMU-arranged housing is located in the WISH Woodley Park, in an upscale neighborhood near the National Zoo
6-person, 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom suites with shared kitchen and living area
Computer lab and study lounge in the basement
Students may opt to find their own housing

Program Costs

JMU Tuition & Fees for in-state and out-of-state students
Housing: In 2011-12, housing cost approximately $4,300, including all utilities except phone
Program fee: $200
Food and transportation costs not included

Internships

Students secure their own internships
Most students will pursue internships that focus on U.S. politics
Past internships include House and Senate offices, interest groups, policy think-tanks, party committees, and news organizations such as CNN and MSNBC. See a list of recent internships conducted in this program here.
Students work at their internships full-time Monday through Thursday; Friday mornings are reserved for the Washington Experience course (POSC 301W), which explores political and cultural opportunities in the DC area

Application Deadlines for the FALL 2012 program:
Early Decision: November 15, 2011
Regular Admission: February 1, 2012
For an application, click HERE.

Back to Washington Semester

For more information, contact:
Dr. David Jones, Program Coordinator jones3da@jmu.edu