What is MSU's Semester Study Program in Washington, DC?

Michigan State University's Semester Study Program in Washington, DC is an exceptional opportunity for MSU students to live and work in our nation's capital while maintaining a full program of academic study during fall or spring semester.

The program offers a full semester of courses, including an internship in one of Washington's government agencies, not-for-profit organizations or corporations.

Who can apply?

The program is open to JUNIORS and SENIORS from ALL MAJORS and ALL COLLEGES at MSU. A minimum 3.0 GPA is recommended, but not required. Student selection to the program is also based on an essay, a one-page resume, two letters of reference and an interview with members of the selection committee.

What is the application process?

Please see How to Apply in the Program Overview.

What is the application deadline?

Spring 2010                  October 2, 2009

Fall 2010                      March 19, 2010

Spring 2011                  March 19, 2010 (Early Acceptance)

Spring 2011                  October 1, 2010 (Spring Only)

 Applicant interviews will be scheduled and acceptance determined AFTER the deadline.

What kinds of internships are available?

Past MSU internship sponsors have included:

• Public Defenders Service
• Children's Defense Fund
• Center for Strategic and International Studies
• U.S. Chamber of Commerce
• National Wildlife Federation
• U.S. State Department, Bureau of European Affairs
• Office of the Honorable Mike Rogers
• Atlantic Council of the United States
• Heritage Foundation
• Sergeant at Arms (House of Representatives)
• Congressional Black Caucus
• American Defense Institute, Director of Programs
• Department of Agriculture
• International Business Ethics Institute, U.S. and Asia Operations
• National Center for Food and Agricultural Policy
• Office of the Honorable Carolyn Kilpatrick
• DC Corporation Counsel
• U.S. Commerce Department
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Office of Policy Analysis
• American Association of Geographers
• House Committee on Education and Welfare
• Woodrow Wilson International Center
• Ad Council
• Center for Strategic and International Studies

• Environmental and Energy Study Institute
• John Adams and Associates
• Common Cause
• Office of the Honorable Debbie Stabenow
• Special Committee on Aging
• The White House
• USA Today
• American Bar Association
• The Freedom Forum
• United Press International
• NBC Television
• Georgetown University Law Center
• National Organization for Women
• Senate Environmental and Public Works Committee
• Washington Office on Latin America
• Office of the Honorable Carl Levin
• Greer, Margolis, Mitchell, and Burns (GMMB)
• C-Span Book TV
• Amnesty International
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• My Sister's Place

How do students get an internship?

The Washington, DC Program staff work closely with students to identify internships which fit their academic training, previous work experience, specific interests and career goals. However, the student is primarilty responsible for the search and selection of an internship.  It is important that students work closely with the MSU's DC program staff members to ensure the best possible internship placement. The quality of an internship experience is a direct result of each student's effort.

What will students do during their internship?

Most internships provide a variety of experiences. Students typically have some substantive responsibilities: e.g., research, writing, attending and reporting on congressional hearings, planning activities, and involvement in other aspects of the work of the organization. Further, students may take on some of the general office duties. The key to a good internship is a balance between the two.

Are internships paid?

Most internships are unpaid. We encourage students to choose their internship as much as possible based on the educational and career value. Any stipends or other arrangements are the decision of the internship sponsor.

What courses are available for credit?

MSU's DC Program combines an integrative course curriculum that focuses on government institutions and public policy with valuable on-the-job experience. Program courses are provided by MSU's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, College of Communication Arts and Sciences, James Madison College, and College of Social Science. Students are asked to consult with their academic advisor regarding the course selection best suited for meeting their academic requirements. Students must enroll in a minimum of 12 credits.  See your advisor or contact our office for more information regarding course selections.

Where will students live in Washington, DC?

Program arranged housing for MSU's Semester Study Program is located in nearby Arlington, Virginia, and is convient to the Metro for easy access to The District.

What are the anticipated costs of the program?

Fees include housing and other program-related costs. Participants pay for their own tuition, meals, transportation and social activities. Please see the Cost section for more detailed information.

Is financial support available to program participants?

Yes. Students may apply for a variety of scholarships offered through sponsoring colleges as well as university scholarships. Financial assistance is also available when students make appropriate arrangements with the MSU Office of Financial Aid.

For additional information, please refer to Scholarships.