Exchange within Georgetown

As a student at Georgetown University’s Washington, DC, campuses, you can take your academic journey global by spending a semester at Georgetown’s international campus in Doha, Qatar.

Located in a thriving hub of political and cultural activity in the Middle East, Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) offers the same Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service (BSFS) degree as the Hilltop, enriched by a regional lens and an internationally diverse learning environment.

Spend a semester at Georgetown University in Qatar

Our intercampus exchange opportunity reflects Georgetown’s commitment to fostering global education, promoting cross-cultural understanding and developing students into ethical, engaged global citizens.

Why choose GU-Q for your semester abroad?

Distinct from traditional study abroad programs, the GU-Q exchange is an integrated academic experience, fully embedded within the Georgetown curriculum. Courses seamlessly fulfill degree requirements and align with the core pathways of the SFS. GU-Q embodies the academic rigor and intellectual ethos of the DC campus, offering a globally attuned education shaped by regional insight and interdisciplinary depth.

Students have access to courses not offered on the DC campus, including regionally focused electives and unique interdisciplinary programs. These include a certificate in Arab and Regional Studies and joint programs with other American branch campuses, such as Northwestern University and Carnegie Mellon University, which encompass certificates in Energy Studies and Media and Politics, as well as minors in Indian Ocean Studies and African Studies.

Qatar serves as a bridge between the East and the West, uniting tradition and innovation. Studying in Doha enables you to explore contemporary global issues from the vantage point of the Gulf, one of the world’s most dynamic and influential regions. 

With students from over 60 nationalities, GU-Q provides a highly international and collaborative environment that strengthens intercultural competence and global awareness.

You will be part of a close-knit academic community with a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and you will have access to dedicated advising, career services and vibrant student life in Education City.

At GU-Q, students enjoy affordable, modern, spacious dormitories that foster a comfortable and inclusive living environment. These residence halls, shared with peers from other universities in Education City, offer a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse and international student community.

Short-term exchange programs

If a full semester in Doha doesn’t fit into your academic plans, there are still meaningful ways to connect with GU-Q and experience its dynamic global learning environment. Through short-term programs, you can engage in collaborative coursework, cultural exchange and immersive dialogue with students from the Qatar campus in different ways.

Bridging capitals: DC and Doha course (INAF 3970)

This 4-credit seminar offers a comprehensive comparative study of the cultural, historical, political and theological contexts of the national capitals of Washington, DC, and Doha. Students collaborate across campuses and travel during spring break, where DC students visit Doha and GU-Q students visit DC, culminating in a joint portfolio project. 

Global classroom experience

Enroll in shared courses that link classrooms across DC and Doha through live video conferencing. Courses like Race, Power, and Justiceat GU and Quantitative Methods create dynamic learning environments where students from both campuses collaborate on real-time discussions and joint assignments.
Search for “RPX Global Classroom” in the course schedule to enroll. 

How to apply

Studying at GU-Q is a transformative opportunity to expand your global perspective while remaining part of the Georgetown community. Students interested in applying should contact the exchange advisor to review the eligibility criteria and deadlines and prepare their application materials.

Connect with GU-Q students

If you are interested in learning from fellow students at GU-Q who are currently studying in Washington, DC, contact us for networking opportunities. Engaging with GU-Q students will provide insights into their academic experiences and the transition from GU-Q to Georgetown’s main campus.