American Studies Program

VISION

The American Studies Program (ASP) utilizes Washington, D.C. as its primary classroom. ASP brings together students from around the globe, spanning a vast array of majors, experiences, and perspectives. ASP emphasizes the importance of Christ-like bridge-building within the political arena. By living and learning together, students are enriched in their intellectual curiosity and intercultural competence. Students explore their foundational convictions and what it means to be a renewing presence in the world. Belief is put into action through mindful engagement and civil discourse with those who think, believe, look, and vote differently than oneself.

QUALIFICATIONS

The ASP is interdisciplinary and encourages students of various majors to apply. To gain eligibility you must:

• Have at least sophomore standing at the time of application
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75
• Possess a strong commitment to academics and Christianity

CREDITS

The American Studies Program (ASP) uses Washington, D.C. as its primary classroom and its people as its primary teachers. Rooted in the best experiential learning, ASP’s integrated and rigorous curriculum invites renowned scholars, academics, policymakers, elected officials, non-government agency leaders, and local citizens to inform, inspire, and equip students in their academic, professional, and spiritual journeys.

You will earn 15-16 credits for the program. Credits are split between an internship and seminars and an optional course in professional development.

Courses

Public Policy (3 credits)
Christian Civility in Polarized Times (Christian Political Engagement Field Seminar)  (3 credits)
Internship in DC (6-9 credits)
Professional Development (1 credit)

The internships can be found in:

• The Executive Branch and Embassies
• Legislative Branch
• Judicial Branch, Criminal Justice, and Law Offices
• Research Organizations and Think Tanks
• Relief, Development, and Social Work
• Advocacy and Educational Groups
• Business, Communication, and the Arts

COST

The cost is generally equal to a semester at Gordon and includes:

• Tuition for 15-16 hours of credit
• Room
• Laundry facilities (detergent at own expense)
• Community meals (approx. one each week)
• Occasional outings

Additional anticipated expenses:

• Travel to and from Washington, DC
• Board (approx. $80 per week)
• Security deposit (refundable; collected upon arrival)
• Textbooks
• Local transportation (varies based on internship location)
• Personal medical expenses, if incurred
• Personal discretionary expenses

The Global Education Office will work with Student Financial Services to reassess each applicant's institutional aid for their off-campus semester. Institutional aid includes Gordon-awarded merit scholarships and grants, honors program awards, and major-or department-specific awards. Federal and private aid will not be affected. Factors in the reassessment process include financial need, GEO program flexibility within your major/minor, and program cost. SFS will provide a breakdown of costs to each student after approval has been issued by the GEO. 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE & DEADLINES 

All Gordon students applying to a CCCU Global Ed program must first submit an online seat application to Gordon's Global Education Office before applying directly to the program. Seat applications for Fall and Spring semesters must be submitted to the GEO by March 1.

After the Global Education Office has notified you of your approval, you may then proceed with the CCCU GlobalEd application. CCCU GloabelEd has a rolling admission policy. See CCCU Global Ed's American Studies Program website for more information on application and deadlines. 

APPLY