Every presidential election year, The Washington Center offers a unique opportunity to take your love of politics to the next level. Study and volunteer to work at the Republican or Democratic National Conventions, be in Washington for the Inauguration of the President of the United States, or all the above!

One of the highlights of The Washington Center’s Academic Seminars is the access you’ll have to some of the day’s most prestigious newsmakers. In addition you’ll have the rare opportunity to question them directly.

Past seminar speakers have included

Intense, Interactive & In-depth Academic Seminars These are truly extraordinary learning experiences. You’ll dig deeply into a topic under the guidance of expert speakers, lecturers and faculty. You will undertake experiential fieldwork, visit topic-related sites and explore relevant texts that give insight into your study. Small group discussions allow for spirited give-and-take discussions. TWC’s Academic Seminars are influential; they’re intense.

Though every seminar is different, a typical day may include:

The First StepContact The Washington Center at seminars@twc.edu to discuss what your group would like to see and do. Consider the following:

Throughout your brief stay in Washington, D.C., you’ll often have an insider’s access to the intersection of society with areas such as policy, international affairs, science and politics. You’ll also have the time to, independently or with other seminar participants, explore Washington, D.C., a city rich with cultural diversity, historical significance and artistic flair.

TWC’s Academic Seminars are designed to qualify for academic credit at many colleges and universities. A one-week seminar is equivalent to one or two credit hours and a two-week seminar equivalent to three or four credits.  While The Washington Center does not grant academic credit, your home institution may; therefore, to receive credit you must make arrangements with your home institution through your campus liaison or a faculty sponsor.

Higher-education Opportunities in Washington, D.C.Academic Seminars are an ideal way for institutions to use the resources of Washington, D.C., for academic purposes.  These programs are especially attractive to students:

Housing is guaranteed and included in the program cost for most* of TWC’s Academic Seminars. You’ll stay in one of our comfortably appointed apartments either in the District or in nearby neighborhoods in Maryland or Virginia. Apartments are fully furnished and close to the Metro; they also include:

Faculty leaders at TWC are chosen for their exceptional teaching skills.  Each of them is assigned to work with a group of 10 to 15 students for the duration of the seminar.

Faculty leaders: