Join the journey

US Presidential Study Tour 2024

Immerse yourself in American political institutions and culture while exploring vibrant cities and engaging with experts during the 2024 US presidential elections.

Date: 27 October to 8 November 2024

Open to: Undergraduate and postgraduate students at the University of Sydney.

About the study tour

The United States Studies Centre, in collaboration with the University of Southern California, Capital Campus, and the University of Southern California, Sol Price School of Public Policy, presents this exciting study tour.

USC Sol Price School of Public Policy

Located in Los Angeles, and ranked No. 4 among the United States 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: Gain insights from renowned experts in American politics and culture.
  • Access to experts: Engage with policymakers, media professionals, diplomats and industry leaders through interactive sessions and events.
  • Educational tours: Explore iconic landmarks and institutions, including the White House, Capitol Hill, and Mount Vernon, with expert guides providing historical context and contemporary insights.
  • Exclusive reception: Network at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC, connecting with diplomats, government officials, and fellow participants and alumni.
  • Transfers and accommodation: Enjoy seamless transfers and comfortable accommodation in Los Angeles and DC.
  • Daily breakfast: Start your day right with a delicious breakfast every morning.
  • University of Sydney insurance.

Eligibility criteria

  • Undergraduate students must have completed at least 48 credit points by the end of Semester 1, 2024.
  • Postgraduate students are also eligible. Postgraduate students are exempt from 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.
  • Must have space in degree to receive credit.
  • Subject to 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 will have 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 offers a unique opportunity for students to blend academic knowledge with real-world experience whilst enrolled in this unit.

*Participation in the study tour is not a compulsory component of the courses mentioned above. Choosing to undertake this tour is entirely up to the student, and it is not required to gain credit for these courses.

Pre-requisites

If you are interested in applying for our undergraduate program but don't meet the pre-requisites for USSC2602: Race, Power, Polarization you may be eligible for an enrolment exception request. More information about this process can be found here. 

If USSC6910: Special Topics in US Studies is not currently being offered as part of your current postgraduate coursework degree, you will need to receive approval from your postgraduate coordinator.

Note: Cross-institutional study is considered on a case-by-case basis. Apply separately through the cross-institutional admissions process. For undergraduate cross-institutional admissions, click here. For postgraduate cross-institutional admissions, click here.

This study tour is not suitable for undergraduate students in their first year.

Anticipated costs

Price is indicative and subject to variation.

Packaged price: $8,500, includes exclusive lectures, tours, accommodation in Los Angeles and DC based on double occupancy, daily breakfast, transfers in the United States to and from airports, reception in the Australian Embassy in DC, University of Sydney insurance.

Additional costs: airfares*, visas, meals, entertainment, and personal expenditure.

*Airfares: Group airfares will be purchased via the University of Sydney’s ‘Travel Partner’ by the United States Studies Centre. We will inform accepted applicants of how the payment process to the USSC.

Financial assistance

Students from low socio-economic backgrounds and those who have not undertaken exchange or study tour opportunities in the past are encouraged to apply.

  • OS-Help: Domestic students may be eligible for OS-Help assistance. Check your eligibility here.
  • University of Sydney Scholarships:
  • Vice Chancellor's Global Mobility Scholarship: Valued up to A$1000, awarded based on academic merit. No application required.
  • Dalyell Global Mobility Scholarship: Valued at A$2,000 for Dalyell Scholars who meet eligibility criteria.
  • Vice Chancellor’s Global Mobility Award: Valued at A$2,500 for eligible short-term global mobility programs.

How to apply

  • Students are invited to lodge their application via the University of Sydney Global Mobility Database.
  • The application deadline has been extended until Friday, 2 August 2024, 11.59pm.

Additional information

  • Places are limited to 30 University of Sydney students.
  • Students must ensure they have an appropriate visa and meet all vaccination requirements.
  • Students must ensure they have space in their degree to receive credit

Got a question?

Please email paulo.olivares@sydney.edu.au for more information.