Why Study at The Les Aspin Center?

Studying in Washington provides a unique opportunity to complement your university education. Spending time in our nation's capital allows you to experience a new environment, opening your eyes to the world beyond your campus. Washington D.C. is not only the center of the American political process, but is a truly global city with foreign embassies, media outlets, corporations, and organizations.

Real World Experience

There is no substitute for observing and participating in the political process first hand. The internship experiences offered at the Aspin Center provide a behind the scenes look at how public policy is really made. Students work closely with members of Congress and their staffs as well as civil servants in various executive branch agencies. The education and insight provided by these experiences allow for more than an appreciation for our political system; they allow you to become a part of it.

These internships often lead to opportunities after your time in Washington ends. Dozens of students have joined congressional staffs, campaigns, and the offices of interest groups and lobbying firms. In the competitive environment for these types of positions, internship experience is invaluable. The Aspin Center counts close to fifty alums as full time staff members in congressional offices as well as dozens of others in the Washington community.

Focused Curriculum, Close Interaction

The Aspin Center emphasizes close interaction between students and faculty. Small class sizes and a dedicated faculty allow tremendous attention to be paid to the intellectual development of each student. Students receive instruction in seminar style classes in which individual participation in the collective quest for knowledge is demanded. The academic rigors of the program set it apart from other similar programs in Washington. The Aspin Center offers courses not just in political science, but in theology and fine arts as well. The fine arts class may be taken for philosophy credit.

The coursework offered at the Aspin Center allows students to fulfill a number of their academic requirements. Political science courses can be counted toward elective requirements and the theology and fine arts offerings can be used as a part of one's core course work.

Making Real Leaders

The Aspin Center is committed to the values of leadership and public service. Students are given opportunities to grow and develop as active members of their community. Students are encouraged to do volunteer work and reach out to those around them. Those with such a commitment have virtually endless opportunities in Washington for giving something back.
Participating in the Aspin Center's programs is an exercise in community building. Students live, study, work, and pray together. This allows for the development of close bonds among the students, faculty, and staff. By the end of their time in Washington, students have made new friends and warm memories.