The Department of Political Science encourages all students to pursue an internship as part of their undergraduate studies. Internships provide hands-on experience, valuable professional connections, and a chance to put classroom learning into practice while developing new skills for future success.
Receiving academic credit for an internship
Two courses in the political science curriculum, POLI 438 (Legal Internship) and POLI 448 (Internship in Policy, Politics, and Public Administration), enable students to earn academic credit for internships.
POLI 438 and POLI 448 are offered only during the spring semester. Internships taken during the fall and summer are not eligible.
Please visit the POLI 438 and POLI 448 webpages to learn more about earning academic credit for your spring semester internship.
Scholarships for unpaid internships
The department periodically offers scholarships to students with financial need who accept unpaid internships. Please see our scholarship page for details.
Assistance with obtaining an internship
UMBC’s Career Center supports students throughout the internship search process, offering guidance on identifying interests, training on internship databases, and assistance with résumé building and interview preparation.
Students interested in internships within a particular field can also seek advice from faculty members whose expertise aligns with that area. Faculty may also be able to connect students with specific opportunities in their field.
The course instructor, faculty in the Department of Political Science, and the UMBC Career Center can provide guidance and support, but internship placements are not guaranteed. Hiring decisions rest with site supervisors and depend on student qualifications.