Internships

The Department of Political Science offers a wide range of internship opportunities for students majoring in Political Science, as well as for those from other disciplines. These internships give students the chance to apply what they’re learning in the classroom to real-world settings, explore professional interests, and develop practical skills. Internships also open doors to valuable networking connections that can lead to opportunities both before and after graduation.

We strongly encourage students—especially those with clear goals or strong academic curiosity—to begin thinking about internships early in their college journey. This allows you to plan ahead not only academically, but also in terms of housing, scheduling, and other personal commitments.

You can find full details about all our structured opportunities on the Political Science Internship page.

Kentucky Legislative Internship Program (KLIP)

KLIP places students in the heart of Kentucky’s lawmaking process during the Spring semester. Participants gain firsthand insight into how policy is made and explored, combining practical work in the Kentucky General Assembly with rich academic discussion of key legislative issues. KLIP can serve as a culminating experience for upper-level students or a launching point for those considering careers in state or national government.

WilDCats at the Capitol

Spend a semester or summer in Washington, D.C., gaining meaningful experience in public policy. Through the WilDCats at the Capitol program, you can intern while earning academic credit and living in the nation’s capital. Students work in offices related to government, advocacy, or public affairs, and are fully immersed in the policymaking environment of Washington, D.C.

Team Kentucky Internship Program

While not directly affiliated with the Department of Political Science, the Team Kentucky Internship Program (TKIP) offers students a valuable opportunity to gain firsthand experience working in state government. This program is designed to introduce undergraduate students to the dynamic and meaningful world of public service careers.

Through TKIP, students develop practical workplace skills in a range of professional settings, while also deepening their understanding of how state government functions. Interns are placed in diverse offices and agencies, allowing them to explore different career paths in public administration, policy, communications, and more.

The program is ideal for students interested in serving their community, expanding their professional network, and preparing for future careers in government or related fields.

Other Internship Opportunities

While the department offers structured programs, students are also encouraged to explore independent internships using reputable job and internship platforms. Many students identify and secure their own placements, which may qualify for academic credit through PS 399.

Here are some helpful tools for your internship search:

• Log into Handshake and search for positions that are specifically posted for UK students and alumni. Handshake is exclusive to UK students and is the preferred online job resource for employers specifically seeking UK students. The Career Center posts internships and jobs, upcoming events, employer info sessions, and more.
• Glassdoor is an online job board linking you to thousands of jobs. Students can research companies, employee reviews, use a personalized salary tool, etc.
• LinkedIn is a social network that focuses on professional networking and career development. You can use LinkedIn to display your resume, search for jobs, and enhance our professional reputation by posting updates and interacting with other people.
• GoinGlobal is a database that contains country-specific career and employment resources for more than 80 locations. You can use job searching resources, learn about work permits/visa regulations, resume guidelines, interview tips, etc.
• The College of Saint Benedict/Saint John’s University maintains a list of internship postings in Washington, D.C., found here.
• Zintellect is a website that provides listings of internships, experiential learning opportunities, academic fellowships, and scholarships funded by government and private sector organizations.

How to Register Your Internship for Credit

To earn credit for your internship experience, follow these five steps:

• Step 1: Find Your Internship
  • Use any of the platforms above or explore opportunities through departmental resources.
• Step 2: Contact the Internship Director
  • Students should provide initial information to the Internship Director.
  • For a full list of information that should be provided in the contact email visit the Internship Page.
• Step 3: Enroll in PS 399
  • Students may earn up to 6 credit hours in PS 399 during a given semester, for a total of no more than 12 credit hours of the 120 required to graduate (Note: 3 credit hours equate to 150 working internship hours)
• Step 4: Securing Formal Support of the Internship Director (Step 4A) and the Internship Supervisor (Step 4B)
  • Step 4A: Students must complete a Learning Contract Form. This form details the academic requirements for PS 399 coordinated between the student and the Internship Director.
  • Step 4B: Students must complete a Memorandum of Agreement with the Internship Supervisor, which is then turned in via Canvas and to the Internship Director.
• Step 5: Exit Evaluation
  • Internship Supervisors will provide an Exit Evaluation Form for each student at the end of the term, and students cannot pass the course without either (a) achieving a favorable evaluation or (b) receiving an official waiver from the Internship Director.

No matter where your interests lie—government, law, advocacy, international relations, or beyond—internships are one of the most rewarding and enriching parts of your college experience. Plan early, stay curious, and seek guidance from your advisor to make the most of these opportunities.