Washington Semester Program

Rider’s University’s Washington Semester Program, administered by American University, will provide you with a unique experiential learning opportunity to gain valuable, hands-on experience in politics, government, law, policy and more. Over the course of a semester, you will study at American University in Washington, D.C., and have the ability to participate in competitive professional internships.

The Washington Semester Program, offered during the fall and spring semesters, opens up countless possibilities for you to obtain employment or attend graduate or professional school after graduation.

Why spend a semester in Washington, D.C.?

• Gain a powerful edge by participating in a competitive internship that matches your professional goals.
• Engage with leaders, policymakers and other field professionals through internships, guest speakers, events and possible travel opportunities.
• Develop your professional network by connecting with like-minded students, faculty and guest speakers during academic seminars.
• Navigate studying, living and working in Washington, D.C. to get a glimpse of life post graduation.

The Washington Semester Program offers 10 program concentrations covering various areas of interest including:

1. American politics
2. Foreign policy
3. Islam and world affairs (travel component)
4. Transforming communities and public policy
5. Justice and law
6. Journalism and new media
7. International environment and development (travel component)
8. International law and organizations (travel component)
9. Global economics and business (D.C. only or travel component)
10. Peace and conflict resolution (travel component)

Note: Some concentrations have a travel component which is an additional cost to students.

Qualified students must have completed 75 credits and have a minimum GPA of 2.5. Students enrolled in the program must be registered full-time (12-16 credits).

On-campus housing is available at American University. Partial housing scholarship opportunities are available to qualified students.

If students choose to live off-campus, American University will assist them in locating off-campus housing. American University will also help Rider students find off-campus housing in the event that they are unable to provide on-campus housing. While American University can provide assistance with finding off-campus housing, ultimately, students are responsible for securing off-campus housing.