UC San Diego
Academic Internship Program
SearchMenu

The UCDC Program

Overview

UCDC is an academic program that provides students of all majors an opportunity to continue their studies while interning in Washington, DC. Internships, relevant to each major, form the backbone of this program. The availability of a 4-unit research seminar that satisfies upper-division course requirements for a number of majors. UCDC is also a residential program with apartments at the centrally-located, UC Washington Center. Not only does this facilitate relocating temporarily to the nation's capital, the Center offers students a rich exposure to the Washington community through tours and an evening speaker series. Since the program's inception in 1997, over 1,000 students have included UCDC in their educational experience at UC San Diego. Find out here how you can apply.

Why to Participate in UCDC

Participating in UCDC has a variety of benefits:

  • Work and live in the Nation’s Capital!
  • Gain firsthand exposure to professional environments, and develop the skills you need for your future career!
  • Internships are available for all majors, in all types of settings and industries, and are a great way to polish your resume!
  • Establish and expand your professional network. Referrals and recommendations have long been proven to have a major impact in the job search!
  • Meet and work with incredible individuals, both at your internship and with other UC Students!
  • Experience life outside Southern California!

What UCDC Alumni Say

“The program provided me with more connections and opportunity than I would have gotten at home.”

“I have never had a more amazing and rewarding experience than UCDC. I made many connections and friendships and had the opportunity to expand my knowledge in a way I could not do so back home. It was truly an experience to always remember.“

“The UCDC experience is unlike anything you will experience during your time on campus.“

"Couldn't have asked for a better quarter.“

“A life changing experience that impacted how I see myself in the work force as well as the amazing opportunities that are out there for students to take advantage of.“

“UCDC was the highlight of my undergraduate career. If I could I would do it all over again.“

“My experiences at UCDC have refined my passions and career goals, and the people I've met and spoke with gave me the inspiration to pursue those passions in a very real way.“

“Attending the UCDC programs means you get to meet hundreds of other students with similar interests as you, hold an incredible internship and hit the town on the weekends. What else do you need?“

"Coming to Washington was incredibly inspiring to me. The UCDC program allowed me to use the knowledge about Congress that I gained in the classroom and apply it to my internship experience. The ability to make this connection between theory and practice allowed me to make the most out of my time in Washington, networking with professionals and learning extensively about politics inside the Beltway.“

“Hands down, the best experience of my life! DC offers opportunities you can't find anywhere else and I am so lucky to have been a part of this. I have developed friendships and contacts out here that will be a part of my life for years to come.“

“UCDC is the wildest adventure you will have in your 4 years of college. It is worth it. It is beyond fun and amazing. The people and the city make the program what it is. It is highly recommended.“


Special Programs

UCDC Coffee Break:

Internships @ Smithsonian National Museum of American History & UCDC Info Session
Monday, March 10
10:00 a.m.
PC West, ERC Room

Don't miss this rare chance to meet the intern coordinator from the National Museum of American History in DC!  All majors welcome and encouraged to attend! Also learn how to participate in the UCDC scholar-intern program.