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The Illinois-in-Washington (IIW) program is a study-away opportunity that allows University of Illinois students to spend a semester or summer living in Washington, D.C. while gaining hands-on professional experience and earning academic credit. The program is designed to integrate coursework with a full-time internship, giving students the opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world political, policy, and professional settings.

Participants in IIW intern approximately 30 to 40 hours per week in a relevant field of choice, including Congress, federal agencies, nonprofits, advocacy organizations, media, and the private sector. Alongside their internship, students enroll in Illinois courses that focus on policymaking, professional development, and reflecting on their internship experience through structured academic work.

The academic component of the program includes (more information can be found HERE):

• An internship seminar focused on applied political science research and professional development
• An experiential course focused on political and cultural life in Washington, D.C.
• An optional policy-focused elective or other approved course

In addition to coursework and internships, students benefit from living in Washington, D.C., where they can attend networking events, connect with Illinois alumni, and engage directly with institutions that shape public policy.

For more information about the program, or if you have any questions about the application or program, please email: IllinoisInWashington@illinois.edu.