We begin in August. Each student takes four courses during the fall semester: Advanced Public Affairs Reporting (PAR 501), Developing Public Policy in Illinois (PAR 510) and two graduate-level electives. Many students choose electives from Communication, Political Science or Legal Studies.

In January, students begin their Statehouse news internships (PAR 504). They also take one required course (Legislative Issues – PAR 503) and one more elective during the spring semester. The internship continues into the summer semester (PAR 505).

Students can depart PAR as early as June 1 if they’ve secured a job. The program officially ends June 30.