Space Policy Institute George Washington
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Graduate student life at the Space Policy Institute reflects the professional character of Washington D.C. education. Many students balance coursework with internships, research positions, or employment at space agencies, companies, and think tanks. The institute's location in Foggy Bottom places students amid the concentrations of policy organizations and government agencies that make Washington unique. The George Washington University campus stretches across Foggy Bottom in central Washington, with the Elliott School occupying modern facilities near the State Department. Students access university resources including libraries, recreation facilities, and student organizations. The broader GWU community provides social and extracurricular connections beyond the specialized space policy cohort. Housing in Washington D.C. is expensive, with many graduate students sharing apartments in neighborhoods accessible by Metro. Foggy Bottom, Dupont Circle, and Arlington (across the Potomac in Virginia) are popular choices balancing cost, convenience, and neighborhood character. The excellent Metro system reduces transportation concerns for students living throughout the region. The space policy community in Washington provides networking opportunities unmatched elsewhere. Regular events hosted by organizations including the Space Policy Institute itself, the Aerospace Industries Association, and various space advocacy groups bring together practitioners and students. These connections often lead to internships, employment, and professional relationships that extend throughout careers.
Location & Surroundings
The Space Policy Institute operates from George Washington University's Foggy Bottom campus in central Washington D.C. The campus occupies a neighborhood known for its concentration of policy organizations, with the State Department, World Bank, and numerous think tanks within walking distance. The White House is less than a mile away, and Capitol Hill is easily accessible by Metro. Washington's climate features hot, humid summers (30-35 degrees Celsius common), mild fall and spring seasons, and winters that can bring occasional snow and temperatures below freezing. The city's Southern latitude provides more moderate conditions than northeastern cities, though summer humidity can be oppressive. The Washington Metro system provides excellent public transportation throughout the District and surrounding Virginia and Maryland suburbs. The Foggy Bottom-GWU Metro station is steps from campus, connecting to all parts of the region. Many residents use a combination of Metro, buses, and walking for daily transportation. Parking is limited and expensive, making car-free living practical. Washington's status as the national capital creates a unique environment for policy studies. Congressional hearings, agency briefings, think tank events, and industry conferences provide continuous learning opportunities beyond the classroom. The city's museums, monuments, and cultural institutions enrich life beyond professional pursuits. Diverse neighborhoods offer varied dining, entertainment, and residential options across the region.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at George Washington University for the Elliott School runs approximately $1,900 per credit hour, with master's programs typically requiring 40 credits. Total tuition for the degree therefore approaches $76,000, placing GWU among the more expensive graduate programs in international affairs. However, the access and opportunities provided by the Washington location often justify this investment. Financial aid options include merit scholarships, graduate assistantships, and federal loans. The Elliott School offers partial tuition scholarships to qualified admitted students based on academic merit. Graduate assistantships with the Space Policy Institute or other university units provide tuition support plus stipends in exchange for research or administrative work. Federal loans are available to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. Living costs in Washington D.C. require approximately $25,000-35,000 annually for rent, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Housing consumes the largest share, with shared apartments typically starting around $1,200-1,500 per person monthly. Costs vary significantly by neighborhood and housing type. Career outcomes for Space Policy Institute graduates leverage the Washington location and space community connections. Graduates work at NASA, FAA, State Department, and intelligence agencies; congressional staff positions; industry positions at major aerospace companies and startups; think tanks and advocacy organizations; and law firms with space practices. The institute's alumni network and the Washington space community's interconnected nature facilitate job placement and career advancement throughout graduates' professional lives.
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