CMDI in D.C.
Discover yourself in D.C.
Challenge yourself, hone your professional skills and explore one of America’s most dynamic cities through the Heidi L. Wagner CMDI in D.C. Program.
Through this study away program, you’ll have the opportunity to gain real-world work experience in our nation's capital in a customized internship while developing professional skills and taking CMDI courses—all in a vibrant city rich in history, social life and career opportunities. Your internship will be related to your professional interests or major and will be set after acceptance into the program.
This program is exclusive to CMDI majors and minors, and is best suited for sophomores, juniors and seniors. It is also open to recent graduates, who are eligible to participate in the first full semester after they graduate.
Applications to the program are accepted for the fall, spring and summer terms. Contact the CMDI in D.C. team to learn more about how this unique program creates professional benefits for you.
About the CMDI minor in public professionalization
The courses and internship experience in CMDI in D.C. can be applied to the public professionalization minor. Students can complete the minor by completing the D.C. program in the fall or spring and taking one additional course on campus. More information →
Why Washington?
CMDI in D.C. is ideal for students interested in an immersive study-internship experience away from Boulder without leaving the country.
The nation’s capital is a juggernaut when it comes to all forms of media work, and is a hotbed for documentary filmmaking, journalism, government and nonprofit communications, and public relations. Here, the conversations in coffee shops, on the street and on the steps of the Capitol are all about the future of the country and world, and the innovations changing how information is shared.
When you’re not at your internship or in class, you’ll be encouraged to make the city your home. Shopping and dining in Georgetown? Unearthing trendy treasures in Logan Circle? Exploring historical and political landmarks? When it comes to Washington, D.C., you don’t have to choose. You’ll discover the city’s world-class museums, restaurants, galleries, monuments and stadiums as you immerse yourself in this incredible city.
A customized experience
While CMDI students take courses together in Washington, D.C., there’s much more to this program than just classroom learning. A big part of that is the custom internship that’s curated for each student. That begins during the application process, which includes interviews with CMDI faculty and representatives from the Washington Media Institute. Interviews ensure students are prepared for the academic rigors of the program, while also establishing each student’s experience levels and career aspirations. That helps determine the right fit between each student and the countless employers who extend our students internships in communication, media and information roles. Students go on day trips and excursions together to feel comfortable in their new settings, but each participant also is encouraged to explore independently.
“This program gives you a better idea of what you want to do—and a clearer path of how to get there.
Reede Ottenstein (CritMedia’23)
Intern, Capital Fringe Festival
About Heidi Wagner
The Heidi L. Wagner CMDI in D.C. Program is named for Wagner (Jour’86), senior vice president and global head of government affairs at ElevateBio. A life-changing internship in Congress gave new direction to her personal and professional goals, inspiring her to remain in Washington and build an impressive career. Wagner also is a university trustee and member of the University of Colorado Foundation Board, and was a founding member of CMDI’s advisory board. More about Heidi L. Wagner