Study away internship programs

Study Away Experience

Clark University offers students the opportunity to gain career readiness skills and an immersive learning experience while studying away in either Boston, MA, or Washington, DC. Students who study away join a learning community that blends a credit-bearing, semester-long internship with collaborative academics and professional skill-building—creating shared experiences that foster growth and connection.

In the spirit of Clark’s collaborative values, our study away partners join us in a shared responsibility to create programs that make a difference. Together, we champion social impact, drive positive change, and nurture curiosity—building a global community committed to learning and action. Below, learn more about what each program offers.

Interested in applying to a study away program? We’ve got you covered! The Career Connections Center oversees the application process and can guide you. To get started, complete an interest form or schedule a meeting with a career advisor through Handshake.

Students and mentors gathering for an acitivity

Semester in The City, Boston, MA

Semester in the City offers Clark undergraduates in all majors a unique chance to turn passion into impact. This fully credited fellowship places students in 30-hour-per-week internships with nonprofits, social enterprises, or government agencies in Boston, where they tackle real social challenges and gain hands-on experience. Over 15 transformative weeks, Fellows develop essential skills, build professional networks, and explore career paths aligned with their interests—from education and criminal justice reform to sustainability and beyond.

Three students walking outside in Washington, D.C.

The Washington Center, Washington, D.C.

The Washington Center’s Academic Internship Program empowers Clark undergraduate students in all majors to launch their careers with confidence. This program goes beyond securing an internship by providing the skills, connections, and experience needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market. In D.C., students gain hands-on experience through hybrid or in-person internships, attend professional development workshops, and network with influential leaders. Weekly academic courses taught by industry professionals bridge classroom learning with real-world application, offering insights and connections that matter.

Getting Started

Interested in pursuing a study away internship experience? Follow these 3 steps to get started.

Meet with a Career Advisor

Schedule a meeting with a career advisor through Handshake to learn more about each study away internship program, including support for submitting your application.

students offering consultation in the Career Lab

Meet with Your Faculty Advisor

Before completing an interest form, check in with your faculty advisor first to see how the academic credits will be applied. Advisors should sign a course credit approval form to be included in a completed interest form.

Complete an Interest Form

Let us know you’re interested in finding out more about one of Clark’s partner study away programs. Complete a brief interest form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out the frequently asked questions to help you navigate the application process.

FAQs

When should a student consider studying away?

Students are eligible to study away in their sophomore and junior years, as well as the first semester of senior year.

Will I automatically receive academic credit?

Yes, as long as you have completed the course pre-approval form with your faculty advisor, academic credit will be recorded once the program provider transcripts are received.

What are the benefits of study away internship programs?

There are many benefits to studying away while participating in an internship. These include important professional skill building, the opportunity to be matched with an organization that aligns with your interests and values, meeting new people and engaging with different communities, and positioning yourself as career-ready to employers after graduation.