The Washington Semester offers Columbia College students an exciting opportunity that combines special academic coursework with a 12-week, custom-designed internship in Washington, DC

Each spring, select students participate in a semester-long study of women and public policy issues. This unique learning experience is highlighted by a 12-week practicum in the nation’s capital, arranged according to each participant’s area of interest.

The mission of the Columbia College Washington Semester is to extend the classroom to our nation’s capital. Participants engage in the challenges of a full-time internship and full-time academic responsibilities, while taking in the best of what Washington, DC has to offer. As the nation’s capital and the home of the world’s most powerful democratic government, Washington holds a certain place in the world as it represents all the freedoms and ideals that Americans hold dear.

Columbia College’s Washington Semester is a highly competitive academic program that provides an exciting semester-long study of women and public policy issues with an internship experience in Washington. The program is open to students from all academic majors. Internships are arranged according to each participant’s area of interest. The program is held during the fall semester, with up to eight students selected for participation. The internship and the associated course (“Women, Leadership, and Public Policy”) combined are worth 12 academic credit hours. It may be possible to arrange additional academic credit for independent study experiences.

History -
the Washington Semester Program was established during the 1997-1998 academic year to provide Columbia College students from various academic disciplines the opportunity to gain valuable career and networking experience in Washington DC. Secondary goals include educating students in relevant issues of public policy and women’s leadership, and exposing them to the diversity, cultural resources, and landmarks of one of the world’s great cities. For most of its existence, the program has received joint financial support through the History and Political Science Department and Columbia College.