Northwestern University is concerned that many universities do not do enough to prepare their students for an engaged public life. The DC program, set in the rich cultural, political and international heritage of our capital city, has been established to prepare students to take an active leadership role in our society. Program History Built around internships in both government and politics, the DC Program will involve students in the workings of major institutions in the nation's capitol and will provide a learning environment designed to ensure that students will get the most out of their experience. Understanding the American government and the American electoral process can only partially be done through instruction and textbooks. Experiencing the real world of policy and politics can both deepen and expand a student's knowledge, especially when that experience is shaped by thoughtful reflection.
Students begin the process by attending an information session during fall quarter.
Interested students will then complete an application, which is due January 5, 2001. Once students have been selected into the Program, they will begin working closely with the Associate Director to apply to organizations congruent with their personal, academic and career interests. An additional component of the program is the practicum seminar, taught by a Northwestern faculty member. The seminar provides a learning structure that promotes camaraderie among the program participants. During the seminar, the instructor covers a broad range of policy and work-related topics.