Student Directory
Summer Internship: Policy at Work
The Ford School MPP curriculum requires a policy-related internship, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge to significant problems in the public, private, or non-profit sectors and develop and enhance skills in areas of professional interest. The internship – completed over the summer following the first year of coursework – helps students clarify their career direction, gives perspective on the selection of second-year electives, and enables students to establish networks of great value in securing post-graduation employment.
Ford School students secure internships with an incredibly wide range of employers, including all levels of government, financial institutions, think tanks & research centers, private sector companies, non-profit organizations, and NGOs. Over 20% of Ford School students intern abroad each summer; another 15% do internship work on international issues within a U.S.-based agency.
Our career counselors work closely with each student to help identify and secure an internship that will advance the student's individual career needs and goals. We have developed an extensive network of agencies and organizations interested in hosting Ford School interns. In addition, established (and funded) partnerships give Ford School students direct access to highly-selective internships in key organizations such as: UNICEF, Geneva; OECD, Paris; Amnesty International, London; East/West Institute, Brussels; the State of Michigan Governors' Office; and the City of Detroit Mayor's Office.
Sometimes the best internship for a student is unpaid. Through the generous contributions of Ford School alumni and donors, funding support is available to offset the cost of pursuing unpaid internships. In addition, staff help students weigh the benefits and costs of an unpaid internship, identify resources for funding support, and write effective funding proposals.
Frequently asked questions about internships
Click here for a listing of Class of 2008 Internships 
