Truman School of Government and Public Affairs

Internship Opportunities

The College of Arts & Science Internship Office provides advice and support to A&S students seeking internships. Students can search "College of Arts and Science - Internship Office" in MU Connect to schedule an appointment.

The Kinder Scholars DC Summer Program is offered through The Kinder Institute on Constitutional Democracy. Participants supplement their coursework with practical experience by interning at an organization in D.C. whose mission relates to their academic studies in the theory and history of American constitutional democracy.

Earning credit

Students can earn credit for an approved internship by enrolling in POL_SC 4940. If interested, please read through eligibility requirements and complete the application here. Please note that applications for enrollment in POL_SC 4940 must be submitted and approved before the internship begins.

If you have questions about the application or the eligibility of an internship, please reach out to a Truman School advisor:

• Rebecca Fallon (last names A-G)  FallonRM@missouri.edu
• Sarah Kammeyer (last names H-O)  KammeyerS@missouri.edu
• Kati Abbott (last names P-Z)  AbbottKM@missouri.edu

Truman School MPA students without significant public sector or nonprofit work experience must complete an internship, which is coordinated through the Truman School Office of Career Services. 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 

Most full-time MPA 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 unpaid internships, and these details should be discussed directly between the host organization and the intern.

Here are some examples of recent internships completed by our MPA students:

• Associated Student of the University of Missouri (student lobbying organization)
• City of Maplewood, Missouri
• Democratic National Committee, Washington, D.C.
• Environmental Protection Agency Region 7, Lenexa Kansas
• Edward D. Jones, St. Louis
• Heart of Missouri United Way, Columbia, MO
• International Rescue Committee, New York City
• Local Motion, Columbia, MO
• Missouri State Rep. Emily Weber
• MU Institute of Public Policy
• MU Office of Undergraduate Research
• U.S. Congressman James Inhofe, Washington, D.C.
• U.S. Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, Kansas City Office
• Veterans United, Columbia, MO

The Truman School is committed to helping students prepare for and transition to their career. You've done your internship and now is the time to see which organization is going to get the benefits of you and your talents. We believe you are now empowered to be the next generation of change-makers to in public affairs and that you will shape the future. Whether you are interested in government relations, grassroots organizing, policy research, or strategic communications, this is the place to explore opportunities. This is a space to explore what is out there.

Undergraduate students are encouraged to meet with the Arts & Science Career Coach for one-on-one guidance on career paths, application preparation, and interview practice.

Mizzou Career Tools for careers in Government and Law

Mizzou Career Job Board (Handshake)

Tailored List for Public Affairs Pathways: