Internships

Internship cycles are in line with the academic year, and are offered in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. The fall internship application is posted in late July, the application for spring opens in September, and the summer application opens in February.

We understand that people come to this work through a variety of interest areas and backgrounds. Competitive applications clearly identify why candidates are interested in the specific internship position to which they are applying, articulate how their experience connects with their area of interest in museums, and make a compelling case for what they might gain and contribute if selected for the internship program.

Yes, all internship positions are paid. Only individuals authorized to work for the Museum in the United States will be accepted into the internship program. The Museum will consider expressions of interest in providing volunteer services to the Museum from non–work authorized individuals.

Interns are paid a stipend based on the hours required for the program. Any additional time spent working beyond the required hours is considered voluntary. Intern supervisors take the interns’ time and commitment seriously, and design projects based on how much time interns can reasonably dedicate to working on them.

You may receive credit for participating in the internship, however it is the intern’s responsibility to initiate the process with their academic advisor or professor, and shepherd any required administrative materials between the university and Museum. Please be sure to communicate your interest in receiving internship credits to your supervisor immediately upon acceptance to the program, since many academic programs require supervisor information, evaluations, and/or other materials to award credit.

Only candidates who have been selected for interviews will be contacted directly regarding their application status by the posted notification date, due to the volume of applications we receive each season. If you have not heard back before that date, you have not been considered for a position and we encourage you to consider re-applying in the future.

No, the internship program requires a full commitment, and does not make allowances for vacation. Interns are expected to be present for the duration of the program to work meaningfully toward project goals, and to avoid missing out on a the variety of programs and workshops throughout the course of the program that are designed to enhance interns’ professional development. Submitting an application affirms your availability for the duration of the program as listed.

For any questions not addressed, please feel free to contact [email protected]