POLI 448 is offered only during the spring semester. Internships taken during the fall and summer are not eligible.
Internships are an important part of the learning process. They allow students to observe and participate in political processes, policymaking, and the administration of organizations providing public services. Internships help students develop professional skills and career readiness.
During the spring semester, students can earn academic credit for completing an internship through POLI 448 Internship in Policy, Politics, and Administration. POLI 448 is a 4-credit course and requires students to work at least 160 hours at their internship site during the spring semester. Dr. Mileah Kromer (mkromer@umbc.edu), Associate Professor of Political Science, is the instructor for POLI 448.
In past semesters, students taking POLI 448 have interned for legislators, political party organizations, interest groups, campaigns, and local, state, and federal government agencies, as well as with nonprofit organizations. Many UMBC students participate in the Maryland General Assembly Internship Program.
Students interested in enrolling in POLI 448 must do the following during the fall semester:
Start Early – Begin searching for a spring internship at the start of the fall semester. Internship sites determine their deadlines and requirements for application materials.
Attend a virtual information session – Click here to register!
(Optional) Attend a Meeting with the Career Center – The course instructor will not review cover letters, resumes, or any other application material. If you need assistance with your application material, schedule an appointment with the UMBC Career Center.
Search and Apply – Actively search and apply for internships that align with your goals and interests. The Career Center can provide guidance if you need assistance with your search.
Email or meet with the instructor of POLI 448 – Only after you’ve attended an internship information session and begun your internship search, email Dr. Mileah Kromer (mkromer@umbc.edu) to discuss the internship opportunities you wish to pursue. Dr. Kromer will determine whether they meet the requirements for enrollment in POLI 448.
Complete the POLI 448 enrollment permission form – This form will be sent to you via email after you complete the steps above.
Enroll in the course – After permission is granted, enroll in POLI 448 during spring semester registration.
The POLI 448 instructor, 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.
Other Important Details
The Department of Political Science recommends taking POLI 448 in the spring semester of junior or senior year. First- and second-year students who demonstrate strong academic preparation or relevant career skills may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is typically required for enrollment. Exceptions may be made with additional evidence of academic competency and professional skills.
Students planning to enroll should work with their academic advisor to build a spring course schedule that allows for blocks of time during regular business hours to dedicate to internship hours.
Deadline
While some exceptions can be made, students planning to take POLI 448 during the spring semester must have their internship placement secured and approved by Dr. Mileah Kromer by the end of the fall semester.