Washington D.C. Congressional Internship

Working in Washington, D.C.

The Washington D.C. Congressional Internship is offered every fall, spring and summer semester.

Interns are placed in offices based on their interests in issues, experiences, knowledge and personality. They work full-time in that office and are considered an integral part of that staff.

Before starting their internships, interns will attend orientation sessions to help prepare them for the experience and familiarize them with the guidelines and responsibilities expected of interns. They also attend socials to get to know their fellow interns.

The DC Experience

During their time as interns, students are encouraged to get the full “D.C. experience” by exploring the city and surrounding areas and traveling along the East Coast. Interns will have the opportunity to discover the Smithsonian museums, tour the White House and visit our National Monuments. Additionally, the Dupont Circle area, Old Town Alexandria, Adams Morgan, Georgetown and Eastern Market provide entertainment for interns when they are not working in the office. Traditionally, interns have traveled to New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Virginia Beach, Atlantic City, Boston, Gettysburg, Manassas, Niagara Falls and many other areas. There are also ample receptions, Texas State Society and Texas Tech Alumni Association events, and various festivals to attend while in D.C.

Housing on Capitol Hill

Texas Tech interns traveling to Washington D.C. are given the option to live in the "Tech House,” located two blocks away from the Capitol. The Tech House is located within a 5-10-minute walk of both the House and Senate Office Buildings, the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, and the National Mall. The Tech House is located across the street from the Capitol South Metro stop, which allows for easy travel throughout the Washington D.C. area.

Academic Credit

Each intern will receive academic credit for their internship. The number of hours awarded may vary based on their internship activities and length of time performing the internship. Undergraduates will be enrolled in POLS 4000 – a political science practicum class. Graduate students will be enrolled in IS 5000 that is also a political science practicum. Interns participating in this program are considered full-time students.

Political Science Undergraduate Minor

Through the internship program, students can complete a substantial portion of the political science minor. Undergraduate interns who are not already majoring in political science can earn up to nine hours of political science credit while working in Washington D.C.

With the completion of the internship and in addition to the six hours of political science core curriculum required of all undergraduates, students may choose between a Texas Tech University International Politics or Comparative Politics class to complete the minor.

Scholarship

Each intern traveling to Washington D.C. for the Fall, Spring or full Summer sessions will receive a $4,500 scholarship. The scholarship covers all housing costs and assists with living expenses.

Interns are responsible for their tuition (students receive an off-campus waiver for most fees), travel, and entertainment.

To apply for the internship, click here.