Semester Programs in Sacramento and Washington DC

Students can study and intern in Washington, DC through two competitive programs: the CSU Washington DC Scholars Program and the Panetta Congressional Internship Program. Both offer full-time academic credit while placing students in internships with congressional offices, executive agencies, nonprofits, advocacy groups, and more.

The CSU DC Scholars Program (hosted by Cal State Fullerton) is open to juniors and seniors from all majors. Costs include regular tuition, housing (about $4,000 for a semester or $3,000 for summer), and travel, with department scholarships up to $5,000 available. Applications are due in September (spring) and November (summer), and students must contact Dr. Guerrero before applying.

The Panetta Program is highly selective, with one to two students nominated campus-wide each year. It begins with a two-week training in Monterey, followed by a full-time congressional internship in DC during the fall, with expenses covered. Applicants must be juniors with at least a 3.0 GPA, and applications are typically due in February or March.

Through the CSU Semester in Sacramento Program (hosted by Sacramento State), students from all CSU campuses can live, study, and intern in California’s state capital while earning 12 units of academic credit. Students gain hands-on experience in state government through internships and seminars that connect directly to careers in public service.

Open to juniors, seniors, and graduate students from all majors, the program values strong writing skills, academic performance, and extracurricular involvement. Applications are due in November, and students must contact Dr. Guerrero before applying. Up to ten $4,000 state-funded scholarships are available to help cover relocation costs.