The Washington, D.C. Internship Program offers students the opportunity to study and intern in one of the world’s most important capital cities. Although known primarily as the capital of American politics, Washington, D.C., plays a pivotal role, both nationally and internationally, in business, law, the sciences, public relations, media, and the arts. The program offers students the opportunity to focus on leadership, public policy, and agenda setting in their area of interest. For this program, students receive support from our D.C. program staff during their independent internship search.
Key Facts
Area of Study
Location
Home University
Program Structure
Internship Availability
Term
Coursework Level
BU Hub Offered
Housing
Language of Instruction
Requirements & Considerations
- All students must enroll according to, and remain in compliance with, the Boston University Study Abroad Course Load Policy.
- Admissions Requirements for all programs
Curriculum
Students enroll in three courses and an internship course, which includes a non-unit Hub co-curricular. They work at their internship four days a week, and the courses are held in the evenings. Classes are taught at the BU Washington, D.C. Academic Center, both by distinguished scholars from the Boston University faculty and by part-time adjunct faculty chosen for their expertise in their fields.
An introductory course in either American politics or International Relations is recommended prior to enrollment in this program.
Housing & Student Services
Program Residence
- Students live in apartments, sharing kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.
- Bedrooms are double occupancy.
- Limited single rooms may be available for an additional charge.
- The apartments are centrally located, near a DC metro stop.
- Board is not included. However, a fully equipped kitchen is available in each apartment, and there are many nearby grocery stores and restaurants.
- Students have full access to amenities offered through this centrally located apartment complex, including a seasonal rooftop pool, internet and onsite laundry facilities.
Program Dates
This program follows rolling admissions and may fill before the official deadline.
Fall Term
Program Dates
Late August to Mid-December
Fall Term
Applications Open
December 15
Fall Term
Application Deadline
April 1
Spring Term
Program Dates
Mid-January to Mid-May
Spring Term
Applications Open
June 1*
Spring Term
Application Deadline
November 1
This program is rolling admissions; applications are reviewed once all application materials are received, prior to all deadlines. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all required materials are received by the BU Study Abroad office. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible as some programs and internship tracks have limited space and may fill up before the deadline. Submitting a complete application prior to the application deadline, does not guarantee acceptance. Students will be emailed an admissions decision within three weeks of a completed application.
Information for BU Students Awaiting an Admissions Decision and exceptions to the standard admission calendar for all students can be found here.
Cost & Financial
- 2025/2026 Tuition and Fees: $41,664
Cost includes tuition, housing, program related activities, and administrative fee. - Estimated program budget, including cost of living expenses
- Grants and Scholarships available.