Internships at the National Museum of African American History and Culture offer college and graduate students and recent graduates opportunities to work closely with professionals and scholars in the museum field. The museum provides a dynamic learning environment and access to supportive mentors that help interns reach their educational and professional goals. Interns can gain practical museum skills and program development experience in a variety of positions from education to collections to public relations. In addition to the general internship program, the National Museum of African American History and Culture also offers opportunities through its Robert F. Smith Internship Program.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture will offer available internships as either virtual (online and remote) or hybrid (virtual with the opportunity for 1-2 days onsite a week as scheduled) experiences to meet current health and safety guidelines set forth by the Smithsonian Institution.

Information on other internship opportunities at the Smithsonian can be found at the Office of Internship Program’s website.

Eligibility

• Undergraduate students that have completed one year of study.
• Graduate students.
• Recent graduates up to two years out of school.
• Career changers enrolled in a degree program.
• International students within the continental US.
• Applicants not participating in a degree program but can demonstrate how the internship relates to their academic or career goals and provides significant eduacational benefits.

Internship Duration and Application Deadlines

Internships are available in either full-time (30-40 hours per week) or part-time (20 hours or less per week) positions from 10 to 13 weeks throughout the year with the possibility for extension. Start and duration may be flexible and arranged with approval from the mentor. 

• Spring Internships (January - April): October 15th Application Deadline
• Summer Internships (June - August): February 15th Application Deadline
• Fall Internships (September - December): July 15th Application Deadline

Perks & Benefits

• Professional development and enrichment workshops and trainings.
• Academic credit (applicants must coordinate with their academic institution).
• Weekly seminars with NMAAHC staff.
• Discounts and Smithsonian museums and facilities.
• Tours of the NMAAHC and other Smithsonian facilities.
• Intern social events.
• Access to Smithsonian Libraries.
• Networking events.
• And more!

Location

Internships are offered as either virtual (online and remote) or hybrid (virtual with the opportunity for 1-2 days onsite a week as scheduled) experiences to meet current health and safety guidelines set forth by the Smithsonian Institution.

Hybrid internships will offer onsite learning experiences at the National Museum of African American History and Culture or an alternate Smithsonian office space in Washington, DC accessible via public transportation.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture Internship Program does not offer housing.

Background Investigation

An internship appointment is conditional, subject to your successful completion of a pre-appointment background investigation for a non-critical, sensitive position.

How to Apply

When applying via SOLAA, please mention the specific opportunity that interests you in your application essay. Some internships offer stipends, those that offer stipends will state it within the details in the available opportunities.

Please apply using the Smithsonian online application system. Paper applications will not be considered.

Please be aware that complete applications must include the following:

• Internship program application form
• Resume
• Academic transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable)
• Personal essay mentioning opportunities that interest you (use this to tell us how the internship will advance your academic/career goals)
• Two letters of reference

Program Events