Navigating Political Science Internships: A Comprehensive Guide for Undergraduates

For undergraduate students delving into the world of political science, internships serve as invaluable stepping stones. These immersive experiences provide a front-row seat to policymaking and governance, enabling students to collaborate directly with state legislatures, engage with federal executive or foreign affairs offices, and contribute to influential think tanks. Political science internships equip you with practical skills, a deeper understanding of political systems, and meaningful experiences that can shape your future career in politics and policy.

The Value of Internships in Political Science

Participating in an internship is one of the most valuable things you can do while in college. Internships offer a unique opportunity to:

Reflect on and either confirm or challenge classroom learning.
Build and expand social and professional networks.
Reflect upon your current major or future career aspirations.
Enhance your resume with practical experience.
Develop skills pertinent to your chosen field and future profession.
Cultivate habits of professional practice.
Exercise civic responsibilities.
Learn by doing and applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Financial, career, and education experts underscore the significance of internships, noting their value regardless of whether they are paid. Short-term internships can provide long-term value, and degrees supplemented with internship experience make a significant difference in the job market. Internships are considered the ultimate return on investment for today’s college students, offering crucial real-world experience.

Types of Political Science Internships

The Political Science Department offers multiple internship opportunities for students. A temporary internship is intended to give you training, supervision, and experiences that help you understand the possible career paths in the discipline. Internships may fall into various categories, each offering a unique experience:

Legislative Internships: Working with state or federal legislators on research, bill tracking, and policy analysis.
Executive Branch Internships: Engaging with government agencies and departments, contributing to policy implementation and public service.
Think Tank Internships: Participating in research and analysis at institutions focused on public policy and international affairs.
Nonprofit Internships: Supporting advocacy and social justice initiatives through organizations dedicated to specific causes.

Spotlight on Internship Programs

To aid in your exploration, here are 15 political science internships tailored for undergraduates.

1. Ladder’s University Internship Program

Location: Remote
Cost: Varies by track
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Program Dates: 8-12 week cohorts offered year-round (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort (typically January, May, September, November)
Eligibility: Undergraduates, high school students, and gap year students able to commit 10-20 hours/week

Ladder Internships connects you with startups and organizations in fields such as public policy, nonprofit advocacy, political consulting, biotech, and health tech. You’ll work on active projects with a real team, gaining hands-on experience in research, strategy, or program development while balancing mentorship from a company supervisor and a Ladder Coach. The program emphasizes practical skills, professional growth, and exploration of career paths across policy and social impact sectors. Each cohort concludes with a final presentation where you showcase your contributions.

2. New York State Assembly Session Internship

The New York State Assembly Session Internship offers undergraduates a full-time, semester-long experience in state government. Interns work in Assemblymember offices on research, bill tracking, memo writing, and committee reporting while completing an academic course on the legislative process. The program features the Pod Experience, where small groups simulate budget hearings and legislative sessions under graduate mentorship. You’ll gain practical policy experience, strengthen professional skills, and build a portfolio of meaningful work. Interns also receive a stipend to support living expenses in Albany.

3. Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) Internships

Location: Washington, D.C.
Stipend: Paid hourly wage
Acceptance Rate: Selective; cohort size varies
Program Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions; part- and full-time options available
Application Deadline: Varies by session
Eligibility: Undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates

The CSIS Internship Program provides undergraduates and recent graduates hands-on experience in global policy research, writing, and project development. Interns also participate in the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy (AILA), which offers leadership training, policy skill development, and discussions on current international affairs. You’ll gain exposure to a think tank environment, contribute to high-impact projects, and build professional connections in Washington, D.C. Internships are available year-round, with flexible full- or part-time schedules.

4. National Organization for Women (NOW) Internships

Location: Manhattan, New York, NY
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate: Not specified
Program Dates: Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters
- Summer: 3-4 days/week for 4 weeks
- Fall & Spring: 12-16 hours/week
Application Deadline: Rolling; applications open for each semester (Spring, Summer, Fall)
Eligibility: Undergraduate or graduate students with an interest in women’s rights and nonprofit work

This internship provides hands-on experience in women’s advocacy, offering two tracks: Women’s Rights and Development & Fundraising. Responsibilities vary from supporting campaigns, policy research, social media, event planning, and donor relations, while gaining insight into nonprofit operations. Participants are directly involved in organizing rallies, managing communications, and assisting with development projects. The program emphasizes professional skill-building, independent work, and real-world exposure to advocacy initiatives.

5. The Young Global Professionals Program (YGP)

Location: Washington, D.C. (hybrid options may be available)
Stipend: Unpaid (academic credit available)
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective; small cohorts each spring and fall
Program Dates: Spring: January 20 - May 29 (19 weeks, part- or full-time)
Application Deadline: November 3
Eligibility: Undergraduate students and recent graduates with an interest in international relations, foreign policy, or global affairs

The Young Global Professionals Program (YGP) at the Atlantic Council is designed for students who want practical experience in international policy and global affairs. As a YGP, you’ll contribute directly to policy research, event planning, publications, and outreach efforts across the Council’s 16 programs and centers. The program also includes leadership training, professional development workshops, and exposure to the Council’s operational work. You’ll strengthen writing and research skills, gain experience using professional software tools, and build a strong network of peers and mentors.

6. Wilson Center Internship Program

Location: Washington, D.C.; remote and hybrid options may be available
Stipend: Paid (amount varies by internship)
Acceptance Rate: Selective; cohort size varies by term and internship type
Program Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer terms; part-time
Application Deadline: Varies by term and internship type
Eligibility: Current, recent, or returning college students

The Wilson Center Internship Program provides college students with part-time, paid opportunities to gain practical experience in research and policy. Interns may work as Research Assistants or Staff Assistants, contributing to ongoing projects, participating in events, and developing professional skills. Placements can be remote, in-person, or hybrid, depending on availability, with schedules coordinated with supervisors. Interns gain exposure to a nonpartisan, federally funded environment, learning about public policy research and institutional operations. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, mentorship, and participation in real-world policy activities.

7. The League of Women Voters of New York City (LWVNYC) Internship Program

Location: New York City; remote options may be available
Stipend: Unpaid (academic credit may be arranged)
Acceptance Rate: Selective; cohort size varies
Program Dates: Summer, Fall, and Spring terms
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: College students; must be able to receive academic credit if unpaid

The League of Women Voters of New York City (LWVNYC) Internship Program offers college students hands-on experience in civic engagement, grassroots organizing, and voter education. Interns work in areas such as voter registration drives, communications, advocacy, and event coordination, and may also develop self-directed projects aligned with the League’s mission. The program provides flexible hours, mentorship, and practical exposure to civic and political operations. Interns also gain insight into policy advocacy, community engagement, and the inner workings of a nonpartisan organization.

8. White House Internship Program

Location: Washington, D.C.
Cost: None
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Program Dates: September 17 - December 12
Application Deadline: June 4
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in or recently graduated (within 2 years) from a two- or four-year college or graduate program

The Internship places students at the center of national public service within the Executive Office of the President. Interns participate in significant departmental projects, gaining practical experience in policy development and government operations. The program also features weekly speaker series and professional development workshops, offering further perspectives on public leadership and civic responsibility. The program encourages engagement with service opportunities and community impact initiatives, offering a well-rounded view of federal governance.

9. Department of State Student Internship Program

Location: Washington, D.C.

Placements are available across functional and regional bureaus, primarily in Washington, D.C., providing hands-on exposure to government operations. This paid internship allows participants to develop professional skills, gain insight into diplomacy, and build a network within the field of international affairs.

10. Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS)

Interns engage in projects across research, data analysis, communications, software development, and policy support. This opportunity allows you to contribute to real-world federal initiatives while developing professional skills. Though unpaid, the internship may qualify for academic credit and offers a chance to gain insight into public service. Students apply their academic knowledge to projects with impact, collaborating with mentors and agency staff virtually.

11. American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Internship

Location: Remote and hybrid (varies by department)
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive
Program Dates: Summer (exact dates vary by department)
Application Deadline: Varies by department
Eligibility: Undergraduates, graduate students, and law students, depending on the internship area

The ACLU National Internship Program offers students a chance to work on civil rights and liberties projects across legal, advocacy, and communications departments. Interns contribute to various initiatives while receiving guidance and mentorship from experienced staff. Opportunities are available remotely and in hybrid formats, with summer placements being the most structured. You will gain experience in social justice work and develop skills relevant to careers in law, policy, and nonprofit leadership. This program emphasizes professional growth while engaging directly with contemporary civil rights issues.

12. Feminist Majority Internships

Location: Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles, CA
Cost: None
Acceptance Rate: Rolling admissions
Program Dates:
- Spring: January - May
- Summer: June - August
- Fall: September - December
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Undergraduate students of all majors with a strong academic record and demonstrated interest in feminist issues

This internship places students at the center of feminist advocacy with a leading gender equity organization. Interns engage in legislative campaigns, research, communications, and event planning, contributing to initiatives such as advancing women’s political representation or addressing gender-based human rights issues globally. You’ll work alongside experienced staff, participate in coalition meetings and rallies, and gain exposure to policy and advocacy strategies. The program allows flexible scheduling, with interns typically working 20-40 hours per week. It offers practical experience in public policy, social justice, and political engagement while building professional networks in feminist advocacy.

13. Brookings Institution Internships

Location: Washington, D.C.
Stipend: Paid (via Brookings or external partners)
Acceptance Rate: Not specified
Program Dates: Typically 12 weeks per semester (Fall, Spring, Summer)
Application Deadline: Varies by term and department
Eligibility: Current undergraduate and master’s students; recent graduates may be considered for select roles

Brookings internships provide students with an immersive experience at a leading public policy think tank. You are placed in research programs such as Foreign Policy, Economic Studies, or Governance Studies, or in administrative teams like HR or Communications. Tasks may include policy research, data analysis, editing, or coordinating events, tailored to your placement. You are also encouraged to attend professional development sessions, join affinity groups, and engage in internal events.

14. MIT Washington DC Summer Internship Program

Interns work on real-world policy issues, gaining exposure to executive offices, legislative operations, and public-interest organizations. The MIT Washington DC Summer Internship Program provides a two-month placement with academic credit, while Course 17 students can access a funded summer internship tailored to political science majors. Interns receive stipends, housing, and travel support, and have the opportunity to develop professional networks and gain practical experience that can guide future career choices. Participation also includes preparatory seminars on policymaking and research skills.

15. Director’s Internship Program at Harvard’s Institute of Politics (IOP)

Location: Remote, hybrid, or in-person with host organizations globally
Stipend: $6,000
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective; cohort size varies by host organization
Program Dates: Summer; 10 weeks (typically early June - mid-August)
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Current Harvard College undergraduates intending to enroll in the following fall; previous Director’s Internship participants may reapply

The Director’s Internship Program at Harvard’s Institute of Politics (IOP) offers undergraduates fully funded, career-oriented summer internships with elected officials and prominent organizations worldwide. You will gain experience in politics, government, and public service, building professional skills and expanding networks. The program supports in-person, remote, and hybrid placements depending on the host organization, and students receive a $6,000 stipend for the full-time summer experience. The program emphasizes real-world impact, mentorship, and exposure to the inner workings of public service and policy.

Additional Opportunities

Lumiere Research Scholar Program: For those interested in independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford.
Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation: A non-profit research program for talented, low-income students, offering full need-based financial aid.
Department of Political Science Internship Courses: Many universities offer internship courses that provide academic credit for internship experiences. For example, POSC 447 (Fall) and POSC 448 (Spring) allow students to earn credit towards their major by working at an internship and completing associated coursework.
Fred Harris Congressional Internship: Selected students spend a semester living in Washington, DC while working in the office of a NM senator or representative, earning a stipend and credit hours.
New Mexico State Legislative Internship: Selected students spend a week in Santa Fe, NM, participating in part of the NM legislative session, earning a stipend and credit hours.
Mayor's Select Internship Program: Selected students work directly in the Mayor's Office and another city department, earning credit hours.
GlobalWorks International Internships: Administered by Global Education Oregon (GEO), these internships offer political science opportunities in various career fields and locations worldwide.

Finding and Securing an Internship

Identify Your Interests: Determine the specific areas of political science that intrigue you, such as policymaking, international relations, or advocacy.
Research Internship Programs: Explore the numerous internship programs available, considering factors such as location, eligibility criteria, stipends, and program dates.
Prepare Your Application Materials: Craft a compelling resume and cover letter that highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and academic achievements.
Network: Reach out to professors, alumni, and professionals in the field to inquire about potential internship opportunities and seek advice on the application process.
Apply Early: Submit your applications well in advance of the deadlines, as many programs have rolling admissions or competitive selection processes.
Follow Up: After submitting your application, follow up with the program coordinator to express your continued interest and inquire about the status of your application.

The Department of Political Science supports your career goals by offering credit for internships related to political science that help you explore and prepare for the job market. Eligible PS majors can receive two (2) credits for an approved internship.

To receive political science major credit for your internship, please follow these steps:

Review the Internship Procedure and Guidelines.
Identifying, applying for, and being selected for an internship is the sole responsibility of the student.
After you have the internship lined up, complete the PS 404 Internship Application Form. This must be done prior to registration deadlines and before you start your internship. The Department of Political Science does not consider applications for internships that have already been completed.
If your application is accepted, follow department instructions to register for the course PS 404 Internship ahead of the given term.

tags: #political #science #internships #for #undergraduates