American Studies Program

VISION

Interested in the intersection of the gospel and contemporary American culture? Want to make a city your classroom?

The American Studies Program in Washington, D.C. provides an integrative, faith-based perspective on issues of public policy and global development. It connects participants to the institutions and leaders which have such an impact on life in the United States and around the globe. Students engage in what it means to be in community and to be a leader, and interact in on-site visits with expert scholars and policymakers. Internships, professional mentorship and service opportunities offer the chance for students to further define their vocation. 

Tracks

Public Policy Track
The Politics of Public Policy, 3 credits
Christian Political Engagement: Contemporary Perspectives and Practices, 3 credits

Strategic Communication Track
Case Studies in Strategic Communication, 3 credits
Christian Public Engagement for Communicators: Contemporary Perspectives and Practices, 3 credits

QUALIFICATIONS

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

• Have at least sophomore standing at time of application
• Maintain a minimum G.P.A. of 2.75
• Possess a strong commitment to academics and Christianity

CREDITS

You will earn 15-16 credits for the program. Credits are split equally between an internship and a series of three seminars, depending upon the track you select. 

Practicum Courses:

Internship (20-30 hrs/wk) (9 credits)
Professional Mentorship (optional) (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

**Please note that board is NOT included by BestSemester and you will not be billed for board by Gordon.
Student Financial Services will reassess each applicant's financial aid package for their off-campus semester and provide a break down of costs after acceptance from the GEO. Federal and private aid will not be affected. Please contact SFS for specific financial questions. 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE & DEADLINES 

All Gordon students applying to a BestSemester program must first submit an online seat application to the Global and Experiential Learning Office before applying directly to your program. Seat applications must be submitted to the GEO by March 1.

After the Global and Experiential Learning Office has notified you of your approval, you may then proceed with the BestSemester application. BestSemester has a rolling admission policy. Spring applications are accepted until October 1. Fall applications are accepted until June 1.

APPLY