Learning Beyond the Classroom
The Department of Political Science offers a variety of opportunities for students to engage the world around them, gain practical experience and prepare for success after graduation.
Contact Daniel Birdsong for questions or additional information about political science internship programs. Current students can find additional information on Porches.
Undergraduate Internships
We encourage students to further their education outside the classroom through internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can greatly benefit from completing at least one such experience during their undergraduate experience. Academic credit is available to students who complete internship experiences in the broadly defined areas of political, governmental, legal or non-profit agency.
Why participate in political science internship programs?
In today's marketplace, students must implement a multi-prong approach to differentiate themselves from their peer competitors and to demonstrate to employers that they are prepared and ready to succeed in their chosen professions. In order to be most competitive in their transition from college to the workplace, political science students should consider enrolling in our internship program.
How are these opportunities meaningful?
- Learn about, connect into and become involved in real challenges facing communities.
- Test academic concepts and theories on real world issues.
- Gain insight into public policy – effectiveness and real world impact.
- Test your interests and expand career options.
- Develop strong problem solving skills.
In addition, intern students can use the program to network with professionals, identify mentors and cultivate professional relationships.
M.P.A. Internships
Practical work experience is an important part of our M.P.A. students’ education. An internship is not required of all M.P.A. students, but is highly encouraged for pre-service and early career students.
We collaborate with employers who are interested in providing practical work experiences that take place throughout the year, either on a full-time or part-time basis. M.P.A. students participating in these experiential learning opportunities can enroll in MPA 595 to earn up to 6 semester hours toward elective coursework.
Students interested in finding an internship placement and/or earning credit for an internship should contact Daniel Birdsong before beginning an internship and enrolling in MPA 595.