Government and Politics in Washington, D.C.

United States Capitol

Department of Political Science
Location: Washington, D.C.
Course: POSI 2310 - Principles of American Government and POSI 2320 - Functions of American Government
CRN: TBD
Program Director: Dr. Helen Lowman, hal7@txstate.edu 
Course Dates: Summer I, dates TBD
Travel: June 8 - 14, 2025
Program Fee: $1,840
Course Tuition: 3-hours $1,068.24, 6-hours $2,136.48
*Financial Aid eligible

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Study in America applications for summer 2025 are open through January 24. Don't miss your chance to study beyond the classroom!

Program Itinerary

Join us for a transformative week in Washington, D.C., where history and politics come to life! Explore iconic landmarks like the White House and Lincoln Memorial while diving deep into America's rich past. Witness government in action and gain insights that could inspire you to become an informed citizen or even a future leader. Experience the vibrant, multicultural atmosphere of the nation’s capital and engage with diverse communities. Discover world-class museums, including the Smithsonian Institution, and enjoy educational exhibits on art, science, history, and culture. Plus, network with influential professionals from the worlds of government, policy, and industry. This trip promises to be an unforgettable journey filled with knowledge, connections, and lasting memories.

DateActivities
Sunday, June 8Travel to Washington, DC.
Tour United States Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima), Lincoln Memorial, Reflecting Pool, and Washington Monument.
Monday, June 9Visit George Washington University. Hear from Dr. Shelton Williams, president of the Osgood Center, Marilyn Nevy Cruz, Public Defender professional, and Sofia De Martino, Development Director.
Visit the Chinese Embassy.
Tuesday, June 10Tour the Capitol and meet with Senator John Cornyn and staffer panel. In the evening, visit the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
Wednesday, June 11Spend the day at the Naval Academy; participate in an orientation brief, observe noon meal formation, and visit with the leadership department regarding ethical leadership.
Thursday, June 12Tour the Pentagon to explore its plans, policies, and operations. In the afternoon, attend a thought-provoking session with the Cohen Group on the topic, "What is a Life Worth?" We will also visit the School of Government and Public Service and hear from Oksana Markarova, Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States.
Friday, June 13Enjoy a walking tour of Presidential Park. Hear from U.S. Ambassadors for Latin America, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Ukraine.
Saturday, June 14Visit Arlington National Cemetery.
Travel home.

*Itinerary is subject to change.

Application Process

Follow these steps to enroll.

STEP 2

Applications reviewed by Program Director & OXP.

STEP 3

Pay $50 program deposit. Deadline is February 21, 2025.

STEP 4

Register for SIA associated course.

Program FAQ

The National Mall
The Pentagon
Lincoln Memorial
Expand FAQ List

  • General Information

  • Costs

    • The program fee includes:

      • Hotel for 6 nights in Washington, D.C.
      • All bus transportation in WDC including transfer to/from the airport.
      • All program entry fees.

      *Note that transportation to/from the airport will be provided at the most common arrival time of participants. If you do not arrive/depart at the most common time of the group you may not be eligible for the shuttle.

    • The program fee does not include:

      • Airfare to/from WDC.
      • Meals. There is a grocery store and restaurants near the hotel. Budget-firnedly dining options will be available. Students are asked to bring $100 in small bills for ordering group meals while in Washington, DC.
      • Any additional activities students participate in during program free time.
      • Course tuition.  

      *Per OXP policy, airfare is purchased by the student is not refundable by the university. Students are encouraged to purchase flexible airfare or travel insurance in case of the event they are unable to travel. 

    • Students are required to pay a $50 nonrefundable program deposit to secure their spot in the program. The deposit is applied to the overall program fee. 

    • Yes, SIA programs are financial aid eligible; however, eligibility can vary by student award. Students should always confirm with TXST One Stop whether their financial aid will cover the course tuition and program fee. 

  • Program Preparation

  • Drop & Refund Policy

    • Refunds for a dropped extension course are given according to university policy for regular university courses on campus. Refer to the TXST One Stop for more information.

    • Students may receive a refund for the program fee if they drop/withdraw within the refund schedule. The program fee refund policy is separate from the refund deadlines associated with course tuition costs.

      The following policy applies to students that drop/withdraw from the course/program:

      • 100% of the program fee is refundable 45 days prior to the course start date.
      • 70% of the program fee is refundable 44 days prior to the course start date. 
      • 50% of the program fee is refundable after the first start date of the course. 

      Students that cannot complete the program and would like to appeal the refund policy, please contact extension@txstate.edu for assistance. 

      Please note the course start date is not the first day of travel.