Truman School graduate student Students without significant public sector or nonprofit work experience must complete an internship. Internship experiences facilitate self-directed learning, and can become an invaluable first step toward a public service career. Mid-career and online students are exempt. The goals of the internship are to use the competencies and skills taught in the Truman School, such as:
- Research and analysis
- Planning
- Organizing programs or events
- Data analysis
- Strategic planning
- The application of specific skills such as the preparation of statistical reports, written analyses and oral presentations
Intern supervisors serve as mentors, meet regularly with the intern, provide feedback and present an evaluation of performance to the internship coordinators at the end of the internship.
Requirements
Students must complete 180 hours.
- Most full-time students complete an internship by working full time during the summer semester. However, part-time placements during the academic year are allowed with approval by the internship program administrator.
- Students can accept a paid or non-paid internships, and these details should be discussed directly between the host organization and the intern.
- Students enroll in Public Affairs 8280 (3 credit hours) to receive credit for their internship.
- At the end of their internships, students complete a report and present a poster about their experience.
Finding an Internship
A good internship helps broaden your experiences and allows for personal growth. To find an internship that is right for you:
- Talk to second-year students. They have a wealth of experience, which can help you identify and land a good internship. Attend the Poster Presentations of last year’s interns to learn more about their experiences.
- Utilize the Office of Career & Alumni Services. The office can assist you with contact information for organizations that you find interesting. The Public Policy Handbook also lists many internship opportunities.
- Start looking early. Narrow your search by the winter break and begin applying in January. If you’re looking at internships outside Missouri, in Washington, D.C. or overseas, start around October. Most students accept their internship between late February and early April.
Internship Locations
From 2016 through 2018, Truman School students have secured internships in the following organizations: