Washington, D.C., is not only the center of the American government, but it is also a cultural hub, a major media market, and home to trade associations, public policy institutes, law firms, embassies, politicians, and pundits. The Communications and Democracy Semester in Washington, D.C., is an academic program designed to enable students to both complete course work and intern in the nationís capital while earning Penn State credits in their degree programs.

The program is specifically designed for communications and political science majors, yet other students (particulary those in The College of Liberal Arts) will benefit from the participation in the program. Students will have the opportunity to hear from members of the media and government about how Washington works while gaining valuable on the job experience and building an admirable resume.
Coursework The course schedule for the Washington Program will vary each fall semester and is subject to change based upon the needs of the students and availibility of faculty. During a typical fall semester, the following courses are offered:

COMM 497E, Media and Government
COMM 497F, The Supreme Court/Constitutional History
COMM 497I, Campaigns, Elections and the Media
PLSC 497C, American Politics: Firsthand Observation
AEE 420, Leadership Development
COMM 495, Internship

Contact information:
Scott Colburn
Phone: (215) 801-6737
Email: sbc136@psu.edu

Robert Richards
Phone: (814) 863-1900
Email: rdr2@psu.edu