A curated selection of prestigious internships offering political science students hands-on experience in legislative bodies, executive agencies, and public policy institutions. These programs provide critical networking opportunities, professional development, and a pathway into public service careers across various levels of government.
Get targeted exposure with custom position pinning and highlighted placement.
A centralized resource hub coordinating over 200 federal agency internships, including notable programs like the White House Internship and Capitol Hill Summer Program. It allows students to search and apply to multiple government opportunities through a single streamlined portal, ensuring broad access to public sector roles.
One of the most prestigious fellowships in the United States, offering a year-long appointment in the White House or leading public and private institutions. Participants gain firsthand experience in policy-making and leadership while contributing to major initiatives in health, economy, and national security.
Provides political science students with the opportunity to work directly for Members of Congress, Senate offices, or House committees. Interns assist with legislation, constituent services, and policy research, gaining invaluable insights into the legislative process and federal governance structures.
While the traditional page program has evolved, numerous associate and intern roles remain available in Senate offices for students interested in legislative support. These positions involve research, drafting briefs, and assisting senators with daily operations, offering a deep dive into federal lawmaking.
Offers a two-year commitment for recent graduates to work as volunteers in over 60 countries, focusing on community development projects. Interns and pre-service volunteers gain cross-cultural competencies, leadership skills, and practical experience in international relations and public service.
A graduate fellowship program designed to cultivate future leaders in higher education and public affairs. Fellows work in federal agencies for one year, gaining specialized training in policy analysis and administration, often serving as a pipeline for careers in education policy and government.
Provides graduate students with the chance to conduct non-partisan research and analysis for congressional committees. Interns support policy formulation by preparing reports and briefings, offering a rigorous academic environment that sharpens analytical and writing skills essential for political scientists.
Targets advanced law and policy students interested in consumer protection and antitrust enforcement. The fellowship provides immersive experience in legal research, economic analysis, and policy development, offering a unique perspective on how government regulates market practices and protects public interest.
Offers diverse opportunities in diplomatic missions and headquarters, covering areas like political affairs, economic policy, and public diplomacy. Interns assist embassies and consulates in managing international relations, providing cultural immersion and direct engagement with global political dynamics.
Focuses on health policy and biomedical research administration for undergraduate and graduate students. Interns work alongside scientists and policymakers to analyze healthcare data and support public health initiatives, bridging the gap between scientific discovery and governmental policy implementation.
Provides students with practical experience in environmental policy, science, and regulation. Interns assist in developing strategies for clean air, water, and land, gaining insight into how federal agencies enforce regulations and collaborate with state and local governments on sustainability goals.
Offers selective opportunities for students interested in national security, defense, and foreign policy. Interns support the coordination of interagency policy decisions, providing exposure to high-level strategic planning and crisis management within the executive branch.
Combines public service with academic research, allowing students to work on exhibits, conservation, and cultural heritage projects. Interns gain experience in museum management and public education, contributing to the Smithsonian's mission of increasing and diffusing knowledge.
Most state governments offer structured summer internships in offices of the governor, legislature, and various departments. These roles provide localized policy experience, allowing students to understand state-level governance, budgeting, and constituent services in a more accessible environment than federal roles.
Provides hands-on experience in municipal governance, urban planning, and community development. Interns often assist with policy implementation, public engagement, and administrative tasks, offering a grounded perspective on how political decisions directly impact local communities and civic life.
Offers unique insights into election law, campaign finance regulation, and administrative enforcement. Interns assist in investigating complaints and analyzing financial disclosures, gaining specialized knowledge in the legal and regulatory framework governing American electoral processes.
Focuses on federal human resources policy, workforce diversity, and hiring practices. Interns learn about the civil service system, assisting in the development of strategies to attract and retain talent within the federal government, a critical function for public administration students.
Provides opportunities in international development, humanitarian assistance, and global health policy. Interns support missions in developing countries, gaining experience in project management, cultural analysis, and the implementation of foreign aid programs to foster economic growth and stability.
Offers exposure to social policy, disability law, and program administration. Interns assist in analyzing data related to retirement and disability benefits, providing insight into one of the largest and most complex federal welfare programs and its impact on citizen welfare.
While not an internship itself, APSA provides a comprehensive job board and fellowship listings specifically for political science students. It aggregates opportunities from various public and private sectors, offering curated advice and networking events to help students navigate their career paths in public service.