Public Policy Scholars Program (PPSP)
About PPSP
The Texas A&M University System Office of Academic Affairs is proud to support a special partnership between the staff of the Public Policy Internship Program and the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University where undergraduate students from every university across the System can intern in Washington, D.C. for a semester while earning course credit.
Most notably, this partnership comes with the creation of a new D.C.-based program, the Public Policy Scholars Program (PPSP), which will provide students with invaluable hands-on internship experience in public policy, coupled with an enhanced academic experience.
The program will provide students with 6 hours of in-person coursework developed and taught by distinguished faculty from the Bush School of Government and Public Service, focusing on current issues and special topics relevant to Washington, D.C. and the American political system. Students will attend classes two days a week at the Bush School DC Teaching Site, located just blocks from the White House. Additionally, students will intern three days a week in a hosting office and earn between 0-6 hours of internship credit. The internship credit is variable, meaning students can choose to take 0-6 hours depending on what they need for their degree plan and/or to remain financial aid eligible.
Students will benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, policy analysis, and real-world application, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in public service.
Apply to PPSP
Students must submit application materials by the designated dates/times listed below.
Application
Please complete the form to gain access to the application(s).
Required Documents
- Completed PPSP application (typed)
- Professional cover letter
- Professional resume
- Policy essay
- Screenshot of current semester class schedule
- Official college transcript
- Letters of recommendation
Application & Placement Process
Things to Consider
Eligibility
As a premier professional internship experience, the Public Policy Scholars Program (PPSP) establishes high standards for our scholars. Please review the eligibility requirements carefully.
Note: U.S. Citizenship is required for all PPSP locations, due to the requirements of our hosting offices. If you are not a U.S. Citizen but would like to explore opportunities similar to what PPSP offers, please email program staff at policyscholars@ag.tamu.edu for a list of options you may be eligible for.
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be eligible for PPSP:
- The student must be a United States citizen and at least 18 years old; permanent residents are not eligible for this program.
- The student must be classified as a degree-seeking undergraduate student at a school within the Texas A&M University System. Students cannot participate in the program post-graduation.
- The student must have a cumulative collegiate GPR of 3.0. First-semester freshmen are not eligible to apply.
- The student must be in good standing with their home institution, pursuant to their university’s Academic and Student Life rules.
- The student must obtain and carry valid health insurance for the duration of the internship semester.
- The student must be able to attend all program trainings and pre-departure events, which will be administered virtually.
Logistics to Consider
Before applying to the Public Policy Scholars Program, please review and take the information below into consideration. If you have any further questions or concerns, contact the program staff at policyscholars@ag.tamu.edu.
Meet the DC Scholars
There are no current DC Scholars. Check back in Fall 2025!
System University Contacts
The collaboration between the Texas A&M University Policy Internship Programs and the ten schools within the Texas A&M University System showcases a well-organized and synergistic approach to policy education and practical experience. Texas A&M University oversees the program, but each affiliated institution has appointed a liaison to provide targeted support and guidance at their own campus. Students can find their campus liaison from the list below, which facilitates personalized assistance and ensures effective engagement with the internship opportunities. This cooperative framework not only streamlines the process for participants but also enhances the program’s overall impact across the Texas A&M University System, fostering a richer educational experience for all involved.