MSU Denver Internships: Launching Your Career Through Experiential Learning

Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) recognizes the pivotal role internships play in shaping students' academic and professional trajectories. By bridging classroom learning with real-world experience, internships empower students to clarify their goals, build their resumes, expand their professional networks, and ultimately, launch successful careers. MSU Denver offers a variety of internship programs and resources to support students in their pursuit of experiential learning opportunities.

The Presidential Federal Internship Program (PFIP)

The Institute for Public Service, in collaboration with MSU Denver's President, Dr. Janine Davidson, proudly offers the Presidential Federal Internship Program (PFIP). This prestigious program provides students with meaningful experiential learning opportunities in Washington, D.C., allowing them to represent MSU Denver while interning at a government office, national agency, or non-profit organization.

Experiential Learning in the Heart of Washington, D.C.

PFIP offers firsthand experience in policymaking, public service, and networking. Interns gain a deeper understanding of how policy, research, and government converge to affect all facets of life, a benefit that extends to any future career path. Students immerse themselves in one of the most diverse and culturally rich cities in the U.S., with endless learning opportunities and free access to most museums.

A Transformative Experience

One former PFIP intern shared their experience: "My time in DC has been nothing short of extraordinary…working alongside the brightest minds in political science while living in the shadow of the Supreme Court feels surreal, and I am incredibly inspired to be surrounded by the country's rich history. My internship with Senator Bennet was a truly transformative experience that exposed me to a completely new environment, both professionally and personally…throughout my time in the office, I gained a deeper understanding of how our systems work and the many moving parts involved in creating change. Working firsthand with elected officials and connecting Coloradans with vital resources was a life-changing experience for me."

Securing Your Spot in PFIP

Eligible students can apply to this program during the application cycle that opens each Fall semester. Three to four students will be selected as “PFIP finalists” for the following Summer Cohort. After their selection, these finalists will work with program staff to prepare applications for Washington, DC-area internships that match their interests. Finalists should know this: the DC experience is contingent on securing a summer internship.

Resources to Support Your Internship Journey

MSU Denver provides a wealth of resources to guide students through the internship process, including:

The C2Hub

The C2Hub is dedicated to supporting students by providing resources for finding internship opportunities. However, it is the student's responsibility to actively search for and secure their own internships. Successfully registering for an internship for academic credit requires careful pre-planning.

Inclusive Experiential Learning Fund

Students who are not eligible for the Earn and Learn program may be able to receive funding for their unpaid internships through the Inclusive Experiential Learning Fund. This fund helps to make experiential learning accessible to a wider range of students.

Beyond Traditional Internships: Micro-Internships

MSU Denver students and recent graduates can also gain real-world experience through short-term, paid, typically remote, professional projects called Micro-Internships. These unique projects are posted year-round by companies of all sizes, from Fortune 100 corporations to emerging startups, via platforms like Parker Dewey.

Parker Dewey Micro-Internships

Parker Dewey is designed to help early career professionals launch their careers. Projects completed through Parker Dewey are available to international students who are either affiliated with one of our partner programs or those attending a US-based college or university. Micro-Internships fill fast! The Spring 2026 application process is closed and the available spots have been filled.

Read also: Mile High City Internships

Earn & Learn Program: Reducing Financial Barriers

MSU Denver's Earn & Learn program provides financial support to students participating in internships, reducing financial burdens and allowing them to dedicate themselves more fully to their experiential learning opportunities.

Testimonials from Earn & Learn Participants

"[Earn & Learn] helped take anxiety and worry off of my plate. It had created a way to be able to do everything such as school, internship, and work more manageable. I did not need to work extra hours at my part time job to make up for not working. It has allowed a more valuable learning experience."
"Participating in the Earn and Learn program helped me to reduce my financial burden and stress while allowing me to dedicate myself more fully to the internship and my academic assignments. I felt more free from the anxiety of affording basic living necessities and was able to spend time enjoying my internship experience."
"The Earn & Learn program allowed me to pay for childcare so that I could participate and focus on student teaching. At my placement, I was able to finally see what it is like to be a teacher and teach students in person."
"Participating in the Earn and Learn Program allowed me to choose the internship that best fit my goals and challenged me rather than just choosing an internship to get the credit. I was able to invest more time into my internship and my other classes, as well as pay for some of my tuition and books."

Developing Essential Skills Through Internships

Internships provide opportunities to develop and refine crucial skills that are highly valued by employers:

Networking

An internship provides a valuable opportunity to network within the company and industry. Building connections can lead to future job opportunities and mentorship.

Conflict Resolution

Internships can present opportunities to develop conflict resolution skills. By addressing conflicts constructively, interns can demonstrate their professionalism and ability to work effectively in a team. MSU Denver’s Student Conflict Resolution Services (SCRS) office can provide assistance in this area.

Showcasing Your Internship Experience

After completing an internship, it is essential to update your resume to reflect your new skills and experiences. Be sure to include the internship, projects you worked on, and new skills that you developed.

Read also: Interning for the Denver Nuggets

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