The Semester in D.C. Program enables students to live, work, and study in Washington D.C. during the spring semester.
Semester in DC
Program
The Colin Powell School’s Semester in Washington, D.C. Program offers students an outstanding opportunity to live, work, and study in the nation’s capital. Students spend the spring semester interning at a government agency or nonprofit organization while completing 12 credits, including two special courses designed just for them and taught in D.C. The program also provides a series of guest lectures, cultural activities, and networking events.
This program is a partnership between the Colin Powell School and the University of Delaware’s Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy & Administration. Participants from both universities take required classes together.
Early applications typically open in May and the deadline to apply for the program is in September.
$3.5K
in Total Funding
1
Semester Program
Paid Internship Required
Housing in Washington, D.C.
Application Details
Application Process
- Read the fellowship description and ensure that you meet all the requirements
- Complete and submit the application, including your responses to the essay questions, your resume, and your transcript
- There are two application periods for this fellowship: 1) the early decision deadline is in May, and 2) the regular decision deadline is in September. We encourage you to apply by the early decision deadline to secure a spot for the following spring!
Application Materials
Please upload responses to the following questions through the application form. Write your name on all application materials.
- Personal Statement: Tell us about your scholarly interests and experiences in college. What factors shaped your interests? What are your career goals, and how are they related to public service? Upload an essay that is between 150 and 250 words.
- Essay: Describe your interest in policy making, international affairs, or American politics. Why do you want an internship in Washington DC? Upload an essay that is between 500 and 750 words.
- Recommendation Letter: You must provide one recommendation letter from a professor or supervisor. The professor does not have to teach at CCNY but should have instructed you in a college-level class. Advise your recommender to upload their letter using this form by (date pending).
Program Details
- MUST be a full-time undergraduate student at CCNY for the duration of the fellowship
- MUST have completed at least 60 credits by the end of the Spring 2024 semester
- MUST have a 3.0 GPA or better
- MUST demonstrate interest in national or international affairs, or American politics
- Can be from ANY SCHOOL/MAJOR and with any citizenship status (International Students and Non-Citizens are welcome to apply!)
Fellows will live, work, and study in Washington D.C. during the Spring 2025 semester.
The program pays for shared housing in Capitol Hill.
They will also be required to complete an internship (at least 28 hours/week) in public service. Students will look for their own internships with strong support from program advisors. Those who get unpaid internships will receive a $3,500 stipend.
Students will complete two mandatory political science courses taught by Washington, D.C. practitioners and professors. Two optional online courses are also offered.
Fellows will attend guest lectures, events, and other activities organized by the program.
- PSC 31508 (3 Credits) Power, Inequality, and Social Policy
This course examines the development of the American welfare state and current conflicts and debates about its performance and future. Students will work on a brief about some element of social policy currently under debate in Washington, D.C.
- PSC 33000 (3 Credits) Politics and Washington, D.C.
This course examines primary Washington D.C. governmental, political, and press entities and their relationships. The class will operate through lectures, work experience, and seminars with Washington D.C. practitioners. Students will learn how the major governmental, political, and media organizations in Washington function, the roles they play, and the impact they have on public policy processes.
- SSC 31117 (3 Credits) Internship Seminar
This online seminar runs parallel to your internship and looks into management in public service, leadership styles, and organizational dynamics. Completion of your internship is mandatory, but registering for credits is optional.
- PSC 31005 (3 Credits) Working and Learning in Washington, D.C.
This course examines the government, politics, and the press—and their relationships—through lectures and field trips. Students will attend a series of lectures; they will be exposed to guests who are leaders in each sector; and they will participate in a series of site visits at agencies and offices around Washington, D.C.
Contact Us
Have any questions?
We’re here to assist! Whether you’re a student, alumni, or part of the community, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Office of Student Success for more information or support.
Office of Student Success
North Academic Center, Rooms 6/270 to 6/288
160 Convent Avenue, New York, NY 10031
p. 212.650.8663
Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9.30am -5.00pm
📍Campus Map
NAC 6/288
Christine Garmendiz
212-650-8593
Debbie Cheng
FAQS
Yes! The Semester in D.C. program is open to full-time students at CCNY with at least 60 credits, regardless of major, GPA, or citizenship status. However, note that you need to have enough time remaining at CCNY to complete your fellowship. We recommend that you do this in your junior or senior year. This program takes place each spring.
Fellows get to live and work in DC. You’ll be part of a cohort of like-minded students from across CCNY, who you’ll get to know well over the course of the fellowship. You’ll also meet guest speakers working on the issues that you care about, giving you insight into this work and professional contacts. It’s great to list fellowships on your resume, since they indicate that you went above and beyond in college.
We recommend that you do not take on any other commitments while participating in the Semester in D.C. program.
Our early application deadline is in May and our regular application deadline is in September. We recommend that you apply early to secure a spot.
Attend the info sessions to learn more about each fellowship. Get started on your application early – don’t put this off until the last minute! Use as much space as allotted for your essay responses, since this will enable the readers to learn more about you and your interests. Ask a friend or family member to provide feedback on your essays and help you improve them. Talk to previous or current fellows about their experiences so that you have a better understanding of the program as you’re applying.
No. Please only apply to one fellowship per cycle.
Students live together in a townhouse or apartments in Capitol Hill. The bedrooms and bathrooms are shared but divided by gender. There are shared living rooms, kitchens, and laundry facilities.
If you’re a Colin Powell School major, check out our Paid Internships Program. While not a fellowship, you can get valuable internship experience in the field of your choice.
Read these testimonials!
- “There are incredible opportunities for personal and professional growth. Throughout my time in DC, I’ve been amazed by the supportive community, the wealth of resources available, and the meaningful impact I’ve been able to make. From networking events and being able to immerse myself in the vibrant culture of DC, it has been an invaluable experience. I’ve gained so much insight, made lifelong connections, and gained a lot of new skills because of this program.”
- “This is the perfect opportunity to study/work out of state if you have not done so.”
- “Take full advantage of the political world and learn how the system really works at the Capitol.”
- “This DC program will equip you with experience and a practical understanding of current public policy. This is an amazing place to grow your idea and build lots of connections!”
- “It is a great way to get a cool internship experience, which will be super helpful when you are in the job market after college. iYou’ll meet people that are just as motivated as you, and it is an opportunity to learn and grow outside of NYC.“
