Henry Semester in Washington DC

Vision

Looking for a semester that takes you beyond the classroom? Gordon students can spend a semester in Washington, D.C. through Calvin University's  "Henry Semester" in Washington, D.C.—an experience built around a real-world internship in the heart of the nation’s capital. Choose from four tracks: Politics & Policy, Pre-Law, Social Work, or Journalism and Strategic Communication, and gain hands-on experience that connects directly to what you’re studying.

No matter your major, you’ll work with the D.C. internship coordinator to find a placement that fits your interests and career goals. Past students have interned at places like CNN, the Canadian Embassy, the Department of Transportation, Amnesty International, and even on Capitol Hill. You’ll build your résumé, grow your professional network, and discover what your future career could look like.

When you’re not interning or studying, D.C. is your campus. Explore the free Smithsonian museums, walk through historic neighborhoods, and stand where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. It’s a fast-paced, unforgettable semester—so bring your walking shoes and get ready to learn, work, and explore.

Keep in mind: the semester is only offered in the spring.

Credits

Students choose between four tracks: Politics and Policy, Pre-Law, Social Work, or Strategic Communication.

Coursework includes:

• STDC 341: Faith and Vocation (1 cr)
• STDC 344: Internship in Washington D.C.  (2-12 cr)
• STDC 343: Integrating Faith and Public Life: People, Policy, Principles (3 cr)
• STDC 342: Special Topics in Public Life: Bureaucracy and Civil Service (2 cr)
   
• Social Work Field Work:
• SOWK 380: Social Work Field Assignment in Washington, D.C.
• STDC 343: Integrating Faith and Public Life

Cost

A semester in D.C. will have a cost similar to a semester on campus. Students will be charged a Global Education program cost similar to Gordon’s cost of attendance. Students will retain their Gordon financial aid package, along with any applicable federal, state, and private aid. For more details, please review our tuition and financial aid page. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the Global Education Office.

Program costs cover:

• Tuition
• Housing
• Program-related cultural events
• A stipend towards meal expenses and travel inside the city

Not covered:

• Travel to and from Washington, D.C.
• Books
• Independent travel money
• Any additional spending money

Application Procedure & Deadlines

All Gordon students applying to this program must first submit an online seat application to the Gordon Global Education Office before applying directly to your program. Seat applications for the Spring Semester must be submitted to the GEO by April 15. 

After the Global Education Office has notified you of your approval, you may then proceed with the program's application. See Calvin University's Henry Semester in D.C. for more information on applications and deadlines.