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Quarter in Washington, D.C.

Join us to study and work in Washington, D.C.

The School of Global Policy and Strategy invites current students to spend a quarter in Washington, D.C. with a frontrow seat to the workings of nation’s capital. You will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city through an internship while continuing to study under the mentorship and advice of renowned UC faculty.

For additional questions or more information, please contact your career advisor. 

The White House, Washington, D.C.

Academics

Students enroll in the program in the final (6th quarter) of the two-year degree programs. Students will participate in four units of internship assisted by the GPS Career Services Team, four units of independent research mentored remotely by a GPS faculty member and four units of in-person coursework on an annually rotating topic. This year’s course is The Political Economy of Trade and Investment in the Americas – New Issues and Challenges.

Internship

Internships are secured in collaboration with the GPS Career Services Team prior to departure. You may find yourself running numbers at the U.S. Government and Accountability Office, drafting policy papers at one of the city’s many think tanks or something in between. The largest single GPS alumni group is located in Washington, D.C., so connections are abundant. 

Requirements

Interested students need to plan early for this program. Please see your academic advisor in your first year to ensure you can participate in this program. 

  • Master of International Affairs (MIA) students must plan to enroll in five classes during at least two prior quarters. They must also complete at least 70 units by the end of the fall term. A minimum GPA of 3.3 is required and students must have completed a summer internship between the first and second years of the program.
  • Master of Public Policy (MPP) students must plan to enroll in five classes during at least two prior quarters. They must also complete at least 64 units by the end of the fall term. A minimum GPA of 3.3 is required and students must have completed a summer internship between the first and second years of the program.
  • MCEPA & MAS-IA students are not eligible due to curricular requirements. 

Cost

Regular GPS tuition and fees apply. There is no additional fee for participation, but students should check provisions of any special fellowships they may receive. Students are responsible for travel and housing costs while in Washington, D.C.

GPS Spotlight

Bringing the GPS textbook to Washington, D.C.
May 30, 2019 | By Rachel Hommel | GPS News
Launched this spring, GPS students are trading the West coast surf for a seat in the Nation’s Capital, offering students the chance to finish their degree in D.C.