Contact Information
Phone: 401.865.2627
Location: Howley Hall 304
Faculty
Professor
Mark S. Hyde, Ph.D., Program Director
The Program
The Washington Semester Program combines academic study and experiential learning in a one-semester program spent at The American University in Washington, D.C. The student chooses one of 11 areas of study: American politics, economic policy, public law, justice, foreign policy, journalism, international environment and development, international business and trade, peace and conflict resolution, transforming communities, and international law and organizations. Each area is comprised of three parts: a two-course seminar that features academic professors and professional policymakers; a one-course research project; and practical work experience in a one-course, two-day-per-week internship. Internship opportunities are many and varied, and range from the Office of the Vice President of the United States to the director of the National Smithsonian Museums Network.
Admission to the program is available on a competitive basis to four Providence College students per academic year. A Providence College committee composed of faculty and administrators selects each year’s participants. Application consists of a cover letter addressed to the committee expressing the reasons for interest in the program; a completed American University Washington Semester application form; a current transcript; a research proposal; and a completed Projected Studies Plan form that charts course work through the senior year.
Descriptions of the programs, as well as all forms and applications, may be obtained from the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate and Graduate Studies, the Office of Career Services, and the Washington Semester Program faculty director. Interested students may also check the program Web site at www.washingtonsemester.com.
