Internships

Public policy majors have the option to complete an internship. Students may receive academic credit for an approved internship if it provides an academically relevant experience in policy analysis or research. PLCY 293 (formerly 320) is a Pass/Fail course and is used for internship placement.

PLCY 393 (formerly 325) is graded and is used for work with the Public Policy Clinic.

To receive credit for an internship, students should first obtain a letter from their prospective employer that outlines their responsibilities, indicated the total number of work hours to be completed during the internship, and and affirms that at least 96 hours will be devoted to non-clerical work.  Second, students should complete the Public Policy Internship Agreement Form, which will serve as the syllabus for the course, PLCY 293.

Many different types of public policy work can qualify for an internship. The major criteria are that:

1. The internship involves substantive work on policy issues
2. The internship requires the student to think analytically
3. The work is related to policy research or the policy process, broadly defined.

Internships/jobs that are clerical, that are sales-related, and that are part of electoral campaigns are not approved as formal placements.

For more information, call (919) 962-1600.