Local Internships

Internship List

Local & State Internship Information

Benefits

There are many benefits associated with an IOGP internship. Students develop skills that set them apart and prepare them for a career. Many IOGP internships provide unique opportunities for students to participate in the political process, and gain a deeper understanding and respect for government institutions. Interns often make valuable connections that help them discover a full-time career.

All Disciplines

Though many of the opportunities available through the IOGP have a political science focus, the institute provides internship opportunities in all disciplines for all majors. 

Requirements & Eligibility

Students must have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA to apply. Preference is given to juniors and seniors.

Academic Credit

Students can earn up to 12 academic credits for their internships. Up to nine graded credits are available for completing the internship, writing a research paper, and creating a portfolio of work completed during the internship. For State Legislative interns, students must enroll in an internship course for at least 1 credit. Three pass/fail credits are available for attending a series of six seminars during the internship and writing a summary of each.

Seminar Series

Interns in Salt Lake during the state legislative session can participate in a seminar series featuring USU alumni and state political figures. Interns receive valuable mentoring from influential leaders in the community. Students are able to ask questions to learn about each leader's experience and path to success. 

Finances

Some local internships are paid, some have a stipend associated, and some are unpaid.  Some scholarships and financial aid available for students to fund their internship experience may be found through a student's department. Many of the financial obligations a student has will be based on the internship they are offered and accept. 

Work Schedule and Logistics

Once interns are placed in a local internship, they will set a schedule with their supervisor. Many local interns simultaneously take academic courses at USU while interning. Most organizations that partner with the IOGP are familiar working with students and their coursework demands. 

Available Opportunities

The IOGP partners with many organizations across the Wasatch Front so students may choose from array of opportunities,  including assisting in the governor's office, working with the state legislature, and interning with local law offices.

State Legislature Internships

The Utah State Legislature offers approximately 90 full-time internship positions each general session. Students from Utah State University apply through the Institute of Government and Politics. Those selected to participate in the intern program are employed by the Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel and are assigned to one or more legislators during the 45-day general session.

Legislative interns experience responsibilities that vary in scope and demand. Legislators may require their interns to write speeches, interact with constituents, attend committee meetings, track legislation, interact with government agencies, compose correspondence, research public policy issues, and perform other legislative-related duties. Interns observe firsthand the process of lawmaking while providing much-needed assistance in helping the legislative session run smoothly and efficiently. 

State Legislature Internship Applications due October 25th.

Testimonials