The semester in Washington (SIW) undergraduate certificate program at GW’s College of Professional Studies (CPS) offers a transformative and immersive full-semester experience. The program is designed to provide students with a unique opportunity to explore the heart of American government, while gaining practical skills and insights into politics. The undergraduate program requires 12 credits in coursework. Coursework can be a combination of seminar, practicum, and research courses. In addition, students participate in site visits to various governmental institutions and organizations.
During the semester-long program, students live and study on GW’s main campus in Foggy Bottom, located in downtown Washington, DC, which serves as the ideal backdrop for their academic and professional pursuits. The rich cultural and historical significance of the city gives SIW students a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment to grow both academically and personally.
Given the University’s unique proximity to key governmental institutions, including the U.S. Capitol, White House, and Supreme Court, as well as various federal agencies, the SIW program provides students with a front-row seat to witness the inner workings of American governance and to engage with politicians, policymakers, and professionals. Students also have an opportunity to network with CPS’s Graduate School of Political Management alumni, who hold positions in government, political campaigns, public affairs and advocacy, media and communications, international relations, and more.
The following requirements must be fulfilled: At least 12 credits taken in the courses listed below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credits |
| PMGT 4100 | The Inner Workings of Washington DC | |
| CPS 4105 | Semester in Washington Lab | |
| CPS 4107 | Professional Internship | |
| CPS 4109 | Special Topics * | |
*Any topic offered under CPS 4109 can be counted toward program requirements.
