Art Internships in Boston: Pathways to Museum Careers

Boston, a city renowned for its rich history and vibrant arts scene, offers numerous internship opportunities for students and recent graduates looking to gain experience in the art world. These internships provide invaluable hands-on training, professional development, and networking opportunities, paving the way for future careers in museums, galleries, and other arts organizations.

MFA Pathways Internship Program

The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), invites college and university students to participate in the life of the Museum through the MFA Pathways internship program. This program provides paid opportunities primarily for college and university students. The MFA actively encourages students from all backgrounds to apply to the program, amplifying its efforts toward becoming a truly inclusive institution and fostering the next generation of museum staff. With a paid program in place, the MFA no longer offers unpaid internships or student volunteer opportunities.

Program Overview

Through paid undergraduate- and graduate-level internships in departments across the institution, MFA Pathways interns gain hands-on training in specific museum roles, participate in professional development to learn about a range of museum careers and practices, and build professional networks on which to draw in advancing career aspirations. All participants receive mentoring from staff in their assigned departments and opportunities to engage with professionals throughout the Museum.

Program Dates

The MFA Pathways program offers internships during the spring and summer semesters. Here are the program dates for 2026:

Spring 2026 Internships:
- January 30-April 24, 2026
- Descriptions posted: October 23, 2025
- Application period: October 23-December 3, 2025
Summer 2026 Internships:
- June 15-August 21, 2026
- Descriptions posted: February 12, 2026
- Application period: February 12-March 15, 2026

Applications are reviewed and interviews are scheduled and conducted throughout the application period (i.e. on a “rolling basis”), so early submissions are strongly encouraged. Positions are removed once they are filled. Required hours and specific eligibility qualifications are included in each individual description; read each description carefully.

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Pay Rates

Undergraduate interns are paid \$16.80 per hour; graduate interns are paid \$19.95 per hour.

Application Procedures

To ensure full consideration, applications must explicitly follow the published application instructions. To view all open internships, go to the MFA’s hiring portal. Candidates may apply to no more than two internships per semester, submitting a separate application for each position. Do not submit any materials not specifically requested within the description. (transcripts, portfolios, etc.) that is not requested in the description. Combine your cover letter and resume into a single document (PDF or Microsoft Word only). Applications that do not follow published instructions will not be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are internships at the MFA paid? Yes, all internships are paid.
Who may apply for an internship? MFA Pathways internships are available for either undergraduate or graduate students who have completed their first year of college (including community college) and will be enrolled in a corresponding degree program/process during the internship period. Candidates who have completed a bachelor’s degree are not eligible to apply for an undergraduate internship. In clearly specified situations, internships are available to recent graduates. Read each description carefully for specific criteria on who may apply. Each internship carries additional, department-specific, qualifying criteria; read each description carefully. The opportunities offered each semester are determined by the expected work flow of the various departments and vary from term to term.
Do you accept international students? Yes, international students who are eligible/approved for CPT/OPT work for pay in the United States are eligible for the MFA Pathways internships. Applicants must submit a copy of the published description to their visa administrators for approval before applying. During the interview, international students must indicate that you will be applying to receive CPT/OPT credit. Once offered an internship, candidates must immediately provide the MFA with any agreement documentation required by the CPT/OPT sponsor. All CPT/OPT approvals must be completed before orientation as candidates must present proof of work eligibility, as directed by Human Resources, at the time of orientation. (Note: the MFA does not sponsor visas for internships.)
May I do an internship for course credit? Yes. Before applying, you must (1) provide a copy of the internship description to your advisor for approval, and; (2) make all appropriate arrangements with your school to receive credit. During your interview, you must indicate that you will be applying to receive credit from your institution. Once offered the internship, you must immediately provide any agreement documentation required by the school to the MFA for appropriate approval and signatures.
How long do internships last? Undergraduate-level internships run for one semester unless published as a two-semester position. Graduate-level internships may last one or two semesters. Each description has detailed information on length; read each description carefully.
Is there a deadline for internship applications? Applications are reviewed-and hiring decisions are made-on a rolling basis each period, so apply early. Improperly formatted materials cannot be corrected or re-submitted. Therefore, apply as early as possible for full consideration, as interviews may begin as soon as applications are received.
How many hours per week do I need to commit to an internship? Fall and spring internships require between 10 and 20 hours per week; summer internships may require between 12 to 35 hours. Review each description carefully to determine the time commitment that the specific internship requires. These required hours include two hours per week for the Museum Pathways and Practices professional development course which meets on Thursdays during the summer, and on Fridays during the fall and spring, from 12:30-2:30 pm.
Is there a professional development component to internships at the MFA? The MFA Pathways internship program requires each undergraduate intern to participate in the Museum Pathways and Practices course. This series of 8-11 two-hour-long seminar sessions is held on Fridays during the fall and spring, and on Thursdays during the summer. Each session is comprised of (a) informal networking and cohort building among interns, and (b) a presentation/conversation led by Museum professionals from across the MFA. At the end of the semester, all interns are also required to prepare a short presentation highlighting their internship experience. Graduate interns are expected to participate in the Museums in Context course which comprises 3-5 sessions over the semester. They are also required to attend two undergraduate sessions: “Meet the Leadership Team” and “Final Presentations.” Dates for all sessions are announced at the orientation.
Are interns required to attend an orientation? All selected interns must attend an orientation session before beginning their internship. Orientation dates and times are included in each description. During your interview, you must confirm your availability to attend the orientation.
When do internships start? Internship periods are listed in Program Dates. Individual schedules must be confirmed with mentors when accepting the internship offer. Applicants should note in their cover letter and during their interviews any special circumstances that could affect their start or end dates, as well as participation in the Museum Pathways and Practices course.
Does the MFA provide housing for interns? At this time we are able to offer summer interns a modest housing subsidy of $1,500. (This subsidy is subject to taxes.)
Does the MFA provide transportation for interns? The MFA provides interns a monthly transportation subsidy equal to the cost of a monthly public transit MBTA LinkPass, currently $90.

Other Art Internship Opportunities in Boston

Besides the MFA Pathways program, numerous other institutions in Boston offer art internships. Here are a few examples:

Copley Society of Art

Come and be a part of the vibrant and exciting community of artists and patrons at the Copley Society of Art in Boston. Their internship program provides an unparalleled introduction into the world of art exhibition, curation, promotion, and sales while also familiarizing interns with the general workings of a non-profit organization. Interns learn about the daily operations of a bustling non-profit art gallery - selling art, organizing exhibition jury sessions, and interacting with artists and patrons. Projects will vary widely, from the planning and installation of upcoming shows, to the maintenance of our gallery space and the occasional foray into our archives. There are a lot of opportunities for projects revolving around development and fundraising as well as grant writing and research.

Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA)

Join the ICA team and contribute to advancing the work and mission of one of the leading contemporary art museums in the country. The ICA offers a unique and rewarding work environment supporting contemporary art, artists, and culture. The ICA values building a pluralistic workforce to steward a culture of collaboration, community and respect. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, the ICA is committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace. They adhere to all non-discrimination laws and are dedicated to fair employment practices for all individuals.

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Art Law Internship

The Art Law Internship provides opportunities for current law students to learn about the many different areas of law affecting the arts and how the law relates to the unique issues faced by artists and arts and cultural organizations. These internships expose law students to a wide range of legal issues specific to the arts, particularly in the non-profit sector. Art law interns assist with legal intake, helping applicants discern their legal needs, and working with VLA staff, including other interns, to address those needs. The Art Law Internship is open to second year (as early as the summer after your first year) and third year law students during fall, spring, and summer terms. Please be sure to include the term for which you are applying and the days you are available to intern with us during that term. For all law students, please submit a (1) cover letter, (2) resume, and (3) writing sample. Upper-level students (2L, 3L, 4L), please also include your most recent law school transcript. 15 Channel Center St. Ste.

Boston University Arts Administration Internship

Students matriculating in the Arts Administration degree program are required to have some direct work experience in arts organizations prior to degree conferral. There are two components to the internship course. Through the Internship I Course (MET AR 802), students develop their professional awareness and capacities in order to obtain an internship. By researching the arts employment landscape, honing their interviewing skills, conducting a job search, and working with a network of organizations and alumni, students prepare to secure an appropriate placement. Students must have completed 24 credits prior to taking Internship II (MET AR 803), which takes place alongside the internship during the semester following AR 802. Students with four or more years of full-time, paid, professional arts organization work experience may waive the internship requirement with the program director’s written consent. To inquire about the waiver procedure please contact the program. If the internship is waived, students must take an alternative elective. Students are encouraged to use their electives to broaden their understanding of arts administration. One elective course may be taken from other departments within the University, after approval from the student’s adviser.

Tufts University Art Galleries

Students may wish to contact the Tufts University Art Galleries. Candidates for the Master in Art History and Museum Studies are required to take HAA 289 Museum Internship and will receive credit. With the generosity of Hope Barkan, a friend of the department and former MA student in Art History & Museum Studies, the department is able to help current students in the AH/MS track secure internships as a part of their degree program. Find out more about the Barkan Museum Studies Internship Fund and how to apply here.

Undergraduate Program Internships

Internships can be an important and valuable addition to your college education. While the department does not offer academic credits for internships, (one exception: FAH 98 for senior architectural studies majors only) we nevertheless strongly encourage students to seek and gather work experience. The following links aim to help students find and apply for internships. Even non-paying internships at many museums are extremely competitive. Our Undergraduate Studies Director is happy to advise and help out in this process, but remember that part of the internship experience is learning to take initiative. Please let faculty know as soon as possible if we will need to write you a letter of recommendation. A written internship agreement helps to specify the precise duties you will have as an intern. Your internship should involve you in substantive work in a museum setting. Inevitably, all interns do some mundane tasks, but most of the work should be intellectually challenging and immerse you in a professional setting that will be useful to you in your education and future career. Please be sure to keep in close touch with your work supervisor, and confirm regularly if your work is meeting her or his expectations. Please let your faculty advisor know if you are encountering any challenges or problems during the internship. There are also dozens of museums and galleries in the greater Boston area. Many of them do offer internship opportunities. There is also the world of local history museums, preservation agencies and many more. Needless to say, competition is high. So you should do your own research.

Tips for Securing an Art Internship

Securing an art internship in Boston can be competitive. Here are some tips to increase your chances of success:

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Start early: Begin your search well in advance of the application deadlines.
Research thoroughly: Identify internships that align with your interests and career goals.
Tailor your application: Customize your cover letter and resume for each position, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
Follow instructions carefully: Pay close attention to the application procedures and ensure you submit all required materials in the correct format.
Seek advice: Consult with your academic advisor, career services, or faculty members for guidance and feedback on your application materials.
Network: Attend art events, museum openings, and other industry gatherings to connect with professionals in the field.
Be persistent: Don't be discouraged if you don't get an internship right away. Keep applying and refining your approach.

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