The opportunity of a lifetime
Students on the 2024 US Presidential Study Tour took a deep dive into American political institutions and culture while exploring vibrant cities and engaging with experts during the hotly-contested 2024 US presidential elections.
From 27 October to 8 November 2024, undergraduate and postgraduate students from the University of Sydney visited iconic institutions, landmarks and universities in Los Angeles and Washington DC, gaining insights from renowned experts in American politics and culture.
The study tour was, as expected, the opportunity of a lifetime and it exceeded my expectations. It might seem obvious, but the benefits and insights garnered from being on the ground during the 2024 US election have been invaluable to me and how I now think about the United States and its place in the world. I heard many presentations and had many conversations that will stay with me for forever.Eithne Johnston
About the study tour
The United States Studies Centre offered this unique study tour in collaboration with the University of Southern California, Capital Campus and the University of Southern California, Sol Price School of Public Policy.
USC Sol Price School of Public Policy
Located in Los Angeles, and ranked number four among US public affairs schools by U.S. News & World Report, the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy offers top-tier graduate programs in public affairs and administration.
USC Capital Campus
Located in Washington, DC’s Dupont Circle, USC Capital Campus expands the university’s national and global footprint, providing unparalleled access to global political and policy discussions.
Program benefits
- Exclusive guest lectures: Insights from renowned experts in American politics and culture.
- Access to experts: Engagement with policymakers, media professionals, diplomats and industry leaders through interactive sessions and events.
- Educational tours: Exploration of iconic landmarks and institutions, including the White House, Capitol Hill, and Mount Vernon, with expert guides providing historical context and contemporary insights.
- Exclusive reception: Networking at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC, connecting with diplomats, government officials, and fellow participants and alumni.
- Credit towards degree
- Financial assistance: For students from low socio-economic backgrounds and those who had not undertaken exchange or study tour opportunities in the past.
Eligibility criteria
- Undergraduate students must have completed at least 48 credit points by the end of Semester 1, 2024.
- Postgraduate students were exempt from the credit points requirement.
- Minimum WAM of 65.
- Strong interest in American politics and culture.
- Highly desirable: prior completion of United States Studies Centre / American Studies undergraduate or postgraduate unit.
- Space in degree to receive credit.
- Departmental permission.
Enrolment information
In Semester 2 2024, Undergraduate students enrolled in USSC2602: Race, Power, Polarization, and postgraduate students enrolled in USSC6910: Special Topics in US Studies had the opportunity to undertake the US Presidential Election Study Tour under the expert guidance of Senior Lecturer in American Studies, Dr Kathryn Schumaker. This tour offered a unique opportunity for students to blend academic knowledge with real-world experience whilst enrolled in this unit.
Contact us about future opportunities
Please email paulo.olivares@sydney.edu.au to express your interest in future international opportunities presented by the United States Studies Centre.
