The Washington Center offers residential academic programs and internship experiences for Alvernia students in the nation's capital during the fall and spring semesters, and summer terms. It also operates seminar programs focused on the national political party conventions and the Presidential Inauguration during Presidential election years. The O'Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship manages Alvernia's relationship with the center.


Program participants take a course in a subject related to their academic interests. They are placed in an internship, which forms the core of their experience in the program. The center secures internships in a wide variety of governmental agencies, health care facilities, financial institutions, media organizations, criminal justice agencies and non-profit groups. Most of the internship opportunities are unpaid.


Students participating in Washington, D.C. are guaranteed housing in fully furnished and equipped two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments in the center's Residential and Academic Facility, located in the NoMA neighborhood and within walking distance of Union Station and Capitol Hill. You'll share your apartment with other TWC interns and have access to Washington's Metro subway system, Capital Bikeshare, shops, restaurants, museums and grocery stores.


The Washington Center periodically offers an online information session for interested students. Students can apply for admission to the programs through TWC’s website.


Typically, Alvernia students will receive 15 hours of credit for participating in the fall and spring Washington Center program. Summer credit amounts are determined on a case-by-case basis. Students are advised to check with their academic adviser before enrolling in the program to ensure that they make an appropriate course selection and that they will receive full credit for their participation. Students are also advised to check with the Office of Student Financial Services if they are receiving aid through the university. In addition, there is other financial assistance available through the Washington Center for which Alvernia students may be eligible.


To learn more about The Washington Center, please email Karen Giordano at karen.giordano@alvernia.edu.

Student Life

Washington Center
Washington Center programs boost Alvernia students
Alvernia's relationship with the largest and most established student internship program has launched successful careers in various industries and a special bond among alumni.