INTERNSHIPS FOR UMBC STUDENTS

Recent student intern accomplishments | Current Internship Opportunities

• Why consider an internship?
• How do I earn academic credit for an internship?
• How do I get an internship?
• What does an intern do?
• Are interns paid?

Why consider an internship?
Internships complement academic training and expose students to valuable and practical new experiences by providing instruction beyond the classroom. Hands-on training under the close tutelage of a mentor helps shape personal, educational and professional goals. Internships afford students the opportunity to meet with proven leaders in their  fields, establishing valuable contacts and networking opportunities vital to a future career. Internship experience also enhances the curriculum vitae and/or resume, strengthening a prospective job applicant's qualifications. Upon successful completion of an internship many supervisors provide effective letters of recommendation. In some cases, internships lead to full time positions within the organization. The Baltimore-Washington area offers unique opportunities for internships unmatched anywhere else in the United States. Institutions featuring local and broader topics in art, media, education, museums, government service, libraries and archives are readily accessible to UMBC students.

How do I earn academic credit for an internship?
Undergraduate students may earn up to 3 credits for an internship (HIST 391). Graduate students may also earn up to 3 academic credits (HIST 790) and 3 credits of HIST 790 are required for M.A. students in the Public History Track. Registration for HIST 790 or HIST 391 requires pre-approval from a History Department faculty advisor. Students must register for HIST 790 or HIST 391 only during the Spring or Fall semesters, although the internship may be completed any time throughout the academic year. A three-credit-hour internships require 120 hours of work. Students must submit a completed InternshipContract Form before beginning an assignment.

How do I get an internship?
Generally, students should begin looking for an internship opportunity several months prior to a desired start date.  Identify your interests, goals and needs, and contact your academic advisor for guidance on an internship that will best meet your requirements. The Department of History features internships opportunities on this website. The UMBC Shriver Center is also a good source for possibilities.  Some organizations offering internships require an application form (often available for download at their web site).  Many positions also require a writing sample. A number of federal organizations require background security checks that have long lead times, so applying early is crucial.Many organizations receive fewer applications for fall and spring than summer. Fall and spring sessions generally allow interns a more substantive role in their assigned offices due to the longer length of stay. Additional resources for finding an internship:

• National Directory of Internships.  National Society for Internships and Experiential Education.
• Smithsonian Opportunities for Research and Study. Office of Fellowships and Grants, Smithsonian Institution
• Internships: A Directory for Career-Finders. Sara D. Gilbert (1995).
• America’s Top Internships. Mark Oldman and Samer Hamadeh. (1995).
• The Internship Bible. Mark Oldman and Samer Hamadeh. (1996).
• Internships ’98, Peterson’s Guides. (1997).
• Student Internship Programs with the Federal Government

Are interns paid?
While some internships do offer a stipend, many are unpaid positions.  Nevertheless, the value of an internship should never be measured in monetary terms.  Non-funded interns can seek funding from outside the prospective organization.  

Recent student intern accomplishments | Current Internship Opportunities