American University vs University of Richmond for political science: which is better for internships and networking?

American University has the edge for political science if internships, networking, and hands-on political experience are your top priorities. Its Washington, DC location puts you close to Congress, federal agencies, think tanks, embassies, advocacy groups, and national nonprofits, which makes part-time internships during the semester much more realistic. That proximity matters because political experience often builds through repeated involvement, not just one summer placement.

University of Richmond still offers strong opportunities, especially through Virginia politics, state government, and its well-regarded internship support. Richmond’s smaller size can make faculty access and mentoring more personal, and that can help with recommendations and targeted introductions. The campus is also close to Virginia’s capital, so students can tap into the General Assembly, governor-related work, nonprofits, and policy organizations connected to state politics.

The difference is scale and immediacy. Richmond can absolutely help you build meaningful experience, but American gives you denser day-to-day access to national political institutions and a larger volume of political networking opportunities during the school year.