In addition to the internship program, college and university students have the opportunity to participate in Academic Seminars sponsored by The Washington Center:
Inauguration Academic Seminar – The Washington Center (TWC) has hosted the Inauguration Academic Seminar since 1985 – and it remains the only national academic program of its kind and size. You’ll interact with political and media insiders who had a front seat to the presidential election and explore government agencies, think tanks and media outlets in the nation’s capital.
Inside Washington Seminar – Inside Washington Seminar is an essential resource for college students and faculty interested in learning more about what goes on behind the scenes in the nation’s capital. Combining lectures, site visits, tours and special events, it is one of the best ways to see the impact of the political process and learn how national leaders address important issues. The most recent Inside Washington Seminar took place on January 3-11, 2024. The components of the Inside Washington Seminar included the Plenary Sessions (these morning sessions will feature some of the most distinguished speakers and public figures in Washington D.C.); Educational Briefings (participants will explore Washington, D.C., including government agencies, think tanks, embassies, media outlets, and more); and Small Group Discussions (faculty from all over the country lead these sessions allowing for candid give-and-take discussions to help you digest the information you’ve heard throughout the day).
Apply for Inside Washington 2026 (Check In: January 6, 2026 – Check Out: January 14, 2026) – Apply Here
The application for Inside Washington 2026 is now open. Please click the link above to submit.
Deadline: Friday, October 24, 2025
National Security Seminar – Students may participate in a national security seminar in Washington DC in May. Participants will engage with experts in national security, cybersecurity, and counterintelligence regarding complex global and domestic threats and the ways to address them. The components of the National Security Seminar include Plenary Sessions (participants will hear from distinguished speakers and national security experts); Educational Briefings (participants will attend briefings held at several locations throughout Washington DC, including U.S. government agencies, think tanks, and media organizations); and Small Group Discussions (participants will attend discussion sessions facilitated by college and university faculty).
Apply for National Security Seminar 2026 – (Check In: May 15, 2026 – Check Out: May 23, 2026) – Apply Here
The application for National Security 2026 is not yet open. Please check back in January 2026.
Deadline: Monday, March 9, 2026
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For more information, please contact:
Dr. Bailey Fairbanks, UCA Liaison
Department of Government, Public Service, and International Studies
Irby Hall, Suite #217
bfairbanks@uca.edu
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