Paid Internships at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture

The National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC) offers an enriching internship program designed for undergraduate and graduate students, recent graduates, and career changers. Throughout this program, participants engage in hands-on learning experiences while collaborating with museum professionals and scholars across various fields. As a result, this collaboration significantly contributes to their academic and professional development. Moreover, through these experiences, participants acquire practical skills that are applicable to both traditional and non-traditional museum careers.
Why Intern at NMAAHC?
Internships at NMAAHC enable participants to:
- Collaborate closely with museum professionals across multiple disciplines.
- Learn about museum operations, curatorial work, collections management, and public programs.
- Develop valuable skills in digitization, fundraising, marketing, and exhibition design.
- Receive mentorship and engage in professional development through workshops, networking events, and social activities.
- Explore and contribute to the rich history of African American culture and heritage.
Internship Opportunities
Internships are available in various offices, including:
- Office of Advancement (Fundraising, Donor Relations, Annual Giving)
- Office of Curatorial Affairs (Curatorial, Collections, Archives, Digitization)
- Office of Education and Publications
- Office of Digital Strategy and Engagement
- Office of External Affairs (Marketing, Communications, Public Programs)
- Office of Operations (Finance, Human Resources, IT)
- Office of Project Management and Planning
- Office of Strategic Partnerships
Internship Duration and Application Deadlines
NMAAHC internships are available year-round, offering both full-time and part-time options. Specifically, internship durations typically range from 10 to 13 weeks, and there are possible extensions based on mentor approval. Additionally, flexible start dates include:
- Spring Internships (January-April): Application Deadline – October 15th
- Summer Internships (June-August): Application Deadline – February 15th
- Fall Internships (September-December): Application Deadline – June 15th
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for internships at NMAAHC, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Undergraduate students who have completed at least one year of study.
- Graduate students.
- Recent graduates (within two years).
- Career changers enrolled in a degree program.
- International students residing in the U.S.
- Individuals not currently enrolled in a formal education program but who can demonstrate the educational benefits of the internship.
Note: Previous interns or fellows at NMAAHC are not eligible to apply for future opportunities.
Internship Formats
Internships are offered in three formats:
- Virtual: Remote internship experiences.
- Hybrid: Combination of virtual work with 2-3 onsite days per week.
- Onsite: At NMAAHC or other Smithsonian facilities in Washington, DC.
Perks & Benefits
Interns at NMAAHC enjoy several benefits, including:
- A stipend to assist with internship-related expenses.
- Access to professional development workshops and training.
- Opportunities to earn academic credit (arranged with their institution).
- Discounts at Smithsonian museums and facilities.
- Tours of NMAAHC and other Smithsonian locations.
- Networking opportunities and social events.
- Access to Smithsonian Libraries.
Background Investigation
All internship appointments at NMAAHC depend on successfully completing a pre-appointment background check.
How to Apply
To begin the application process, candidates must submit a complete application through the Smithsonian Online Application System (SOLAA). Keep in mind that incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Your application should include:
- A completed internship program application with up to two selected positions.
- A résumé.
- Academic transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable).
- A personal essay that outlines your learning objectives, internship preferences, and career goals.
- Two letters of reference.
Hear from Our Interns
Former NMAAHC interns describe their experiences as transformative, equipping them with new skills and insights that significantly shaped their academic and professional paths. For instance, intern Susana T. remarked, “It was rich, I learned a lot, and it was fun. It helped me utilize my skills and acquire many more that I can now apply in my professional life.”
Similarly, intern Paris Y. reflected, “I would describe my internship at NMAAHC as life-changing. The skills I gained during my time there directly apply to my current job and future opportunities.”
Start Your Internship Journey Today
Take the next step toward your academic and professional goals by exploring internship opportunities at the National Museum of African American History & Culture. Visit NMAAHC Internships to see available positions and apply today!
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