Legislative Affairs

Program-at-a-Glance

Gather the knowledge necessary to work effectively in the national policy-making arena with this master's degree designed for working professionals with classes conveniently located on Capitol Hill.

• 11-course (33-credit-hour) program
• Classes meet Monday through Thursday evenings
  in the Hall of the States Building
• Degree can be completed in less than two years

To survive in Washington's complex political environment, the legislative affairs professional must have a comprehensive understanding of how Congress operates, how decisions are made on Capitol Hill, how to influence those decisions, and how to accomplish specific objectives within the legislative process.

The George Washington University's program in Legislative Affairs helps you improve your skills in government relations or start a new career as a lobbyist, government relations professional, legislative specialist, or policy analyst.

About the Program
Developed in consultation with government relations experts and legislative specialists, this challenging program delivers the knowledge and skills you need to work more effectively in the national policymaking arena. Learn how Congress and the White House develop public policy and examine the workings of Congress from the perspective of both scholars and practitioners.

The three-part curriculum covers the political process and policy analysis in such areas as:

• political leaders and parties
• Congressional committees
• campaigns and elections
• interest groups
• public opinion
• media and public affairs
• national security and foreign affairs
• energy and environmental policy
• presidential relations

Legislative Affairs Degree Requirements

Courses and Syllabi