Internships enhance the Political Science program by allowing students to apply their knowledge in various real-world settings and gain experience before entering the workforce after graduation. Internship opportunities for undergraduates are diverse, ranging from work at local community organizations during the school year to summer programs in other cities, states, and abroad. The Political Science Department does not place students in internships, but it assists students in securing placements that align with their career and academic goals.
POLSCI 299
POLSCI 299 allows Political Science concentrators to receive credit (1 credit only) for about 160 hours of work in an approved job or internship position that enriches the student's academic experience and/or allows the student to explore careers related to his/her studies in Political Science.
POLSCI 399
POLSCI 399 is a 3-credit course for Political Science majors (and other students, with permission) to receive university credit during the semester by working as interns with various organizations all over Southeastern Michigan and beyond for a minimum of 12-hours per week during fall/winter semesters and a total of 160 hours minimum during the summer term. Placements include state, federal, and local officials, in the legal field with private firms or in the criminal justice system, with non-profit advocacy groups, lobbyists, the media, and national and international organizations.
Michigan in Washington (MIW)
The Michigan in Washington (MIW) program offers an opportunity each year for 20 undergraduates from any major to spend a semester in Washington, D.C. Students combine coursework with an internship that reflects their particular area of interest. The semester in Washington is action-packed. Students work four days a week (32 hours), attend an elective one evening a week, and take a policy research course on Friday mornings. They spend their weekends exploring the city and taking in cultural events.
The Career Center
The Public Service Internship Program is housed in the Career Center, which places students directly in summer positions in government offices in Washington or Lansing. Application deadlines are in October of each year. For more information, visit the Career Center website.
