L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs

L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs

 Menu

Virginia Capitol Semester

Virginia Capital Semester
Virginia Capital Semester

Open to qualified students nationwide

Get behind-the-scenes legislative experience. Add a state government internship to your resume.

Virginia Capitol Semester is your chance to gain firsthand experience in the legislative arena while taking classes as a full-time student. The program is open to qualified undergraduate students from accredited public and private institutions across the country.

No matter what your major, this internship experience is for you!
It's an opportunity to better understand how policy is developed and the legislative process. If you are interested in bridging community issues with current research to impact the future – then participate in this program! 

Virginia Capitol Semester Lobby chat

Thursday, September 7, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Raleigh Building Lobby (1001 W. Franklin St.) 

Stop by to learn about the Virginia Capitol Semester program. The Wilder School Office of Student Success will be available to share information about the program on the hour, each hour (students can attend anytime during the 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. time block; student attendees do not need to stay the whole time slot.)

Virginia Capitol Semester Virtual Session

Wednesday, September 13  3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Via Zoom. Register here

How does it work?

The Virginia Capitol Semester program is a spring semester internship program that allows you to work directly in the office of a Virginia Delegate or Senator during the General Assembly!  We work to fit your passion and discipline focus to that of the Delegate/Senator.  Don't miss the chance to participate in an internship that can serve as a jumping point towards your future career goals! 

What classes will I take?

The internship course and weekly seminar are required.*

Students are encouraged to cap the semester at 15 credits, including:

  • Three credits for the required internship course (online)
  • Three credits for the required weekly policy-making seminar
  • Six to nine credits from other VCU courses

Interns work for a minimum of 20 hours per week during the General Assembly session. Taking classes that cluster together can free up longer blocks for the internship.

Students are encouraged to confirm with their academic advisor the transferability of the required program courses.

 

*exceptions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

How much does it cost?

Students pay the VCU semester tuition and fees and receive all services available to VCU students.  Students are encouraged to discuss financial aid options with their home institution. 

Selection process

Following interviews, participants are selected by the Office of Student Success, with preference given to students who will have junior or senior standing at the start of the program.