Baker Center

The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center's Washington Program is a two-week intensive course in Washington, DC. For the program, students will meet and learn from some of the nation's top public servants, researchers, and journalists on pressing public policy issues.

For the course, students will develop a policy brief on a topic of interest to them. This brief will be shared with relevant guests and as a student publication on the Baker Center's website.

This is an experiential educational opportunity for students to learn about the real-world of policymaking in the nation's capital. Students in all programs and levels are welcome to apply for this course. The application is available here. 

Dr. Katie Cahill, Associate Director of the Baker Center and Assistant Professor of Political Science, will be the primary instructor for the course. Dr. Cahill has led similar programs that resulted in dozens of students obtaining internships and eventually finding careers in DC. 

Students will be housed in small apartments at the University of California's Washington Center, located on 16th and Rhode Island and just blocks from The White House.

The facility includes a computer lab, small gym, lounge and outdoor patio, laundry area, and 24-hour security. Dupont Circle is within walking distance, as is a Whole Foods Grocery Store and CVS Pharmacy. 

The course fee includes round-trip bus transportation to DC, metro passes for DC transportation, a "Monuments by Moonlight" tour, UT alumni reception, course materials, most meals, housing at UCDC, and access to a computer lab.

The estimated program fee is $1,995. Students are additionally responsible for mini-term tuition. Students may request credit through their home departments. Scholarships are available. 

Howard H. Baker Jr Center for Public Policy
1640 Cumberland Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37996
Phone: 865-974-0931
Email: [log in to unmask]
Online: bakercenter.utk.edu