See Yourself at the Washington Center
The Washington Center (TWC) provides opportunities for students to gain experience, skills and networking connections, while living and interning in the nation’s capital, all while earning academic credit. Their Academic Internship program includes 3 components: a supervised internship, career readiness programming and an academic course. The program runs semester-long or during the summer.
This overview of The Washington Center is for all UMass Amherst students EXCEPT those in the College of Social & Behavioral Science (SBS). To learn more about participating in The Washington Center Program as a student in SBS, visit SBS in DC.
Overview
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All academic majors are eligible for consideration
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Available Fall, Spring, and Summer
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High-quality housing in DC included with internship
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Credit is awarded through UMass Amherst
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Internships include federal government, nonprofit, international, and private sector agencies
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Once accepted into the program, you will work directly with a Washington Center Program Advisor to prepare application materials and apply to internships
Requirements to Participate
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Students must have completed at least 45 credits
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Minimum of a 2.0 GPA
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Prior to applying to The Washington Center, University of Massachusetts Amherst students are required to meet with Kristin Brooks to review program requirements and application process
Program Components
Preparation and Internship Search
The first part of your experience will take place online and begins approximately three months before you arrive in Washington, D.C. You'll work with a career coach to identify your strengths and develop an internship strategy that matches your ambitions, ensuring you take the next best step in your professional path.
Internship
Once you’re here, and depending on your specific internship arrangements, your internship will be either hybrid or fully in-person, requiring a commitment of at least 32 hours per week. Washington, D.C. will be your home base for this immersive experience.
You’ll be gaining hands-on experience in a city that thrives on big ideas and meaningful social impact. With our extensive network of internship site partners, you’ll have access to opportunities that challenge you but are achievable—giving you the experience.
Career Readiness Programing
Throughout the program, you’ll continue building skills critical for success in today’s business environment. You will receive professional development, attend workshops and connect with professionals through networking events and speaker series of prominent D.C.-based influencers.
Academic Course
One night each week, you’ll take an academic course designed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. These classes, taught by industry professionals who are actively working in their fields, offer you the chance to learn from—and network with—D.C. insiders. You’ll choose from a range of subjects, allowing you to fulfill degree requirements or explore new areas of interest.
Academic Credit
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15 credits in the fall/spring semesters 9 credits in the summer, apply towards total university credit requirements
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To earn credit for the academic course, students must seek approval from their faculty advisor within their major to determine how academic course credits will be recorded
