Since 2000, Flinders University has sent more than 127 students to the United States on a unique program which provides a placement in the US Congress – and the latest cohort was another successful experience.

The Washington Internship Program (WIP) runs for eight weeks, and an alternative 17-week program is also available that combines the Washington Internship Program with a Capital Semester Program (WIPCASP).

Both programs are open to enrolled Flinders University students who have met the pre-requisite topic requirements. Admission to the programs is by application only and is competitive.

While the students are in Washington, the internship provides an experience of political life in an influential congressional office and the many tasks, priorities and pressures of that office.

Students work full-time in the office of a member of the United States Senate or the US House of Representatives, providing an opportunity unparalleled in Australasia, to experience political life in Washington DC. WIPCASP students also study at George Mason University to complete two topics.

In the congressional office, a supervisor sets daily tasks and a requirement of the internship is that students produce a research paper, set in conjunction with Flinders University and a congressional office supervisor.

Students applying the internship list three preferred areas of policy or partisan interest and every effort is made to match student interest with the interests of the offices offering placements.  

If you are interested in partnering and supporting the Flinders Washington Internship Program, please get in touch with Dr Luis da Vinha, Senior Lecturer and Coordinator of the Master of International Relations (luis.davinha@flinders.edu.au) or American Studies Professor Don DeBats (don.debats@flinders.edu.au).