The Institute of World Politics proudly offers the National Security Research Internship & Graduate Pathway Program, a competitive opportunity for students seeking early, hands-on experience in national security, intelligence, and international affairs.
Participants gain rigorous research experience, targeted professional development, and direct exposure to the work of national security professionals. This is not a stand-alone internship—it is intentionally designed as a graduate pathway program for students planning to pursue a master’s degree or graduate certificate at IWP. Qualified participants may also be eligible for exclusive scholarship opportunities toward their future studies.
Mission: The Institute of World Politics is a graduate school of national security, intelligence, and international affairs, dedicated to developing leaders with a sound understanding of international realities and the ethical conduct of statecraft, based on knowledge and appreciation of the founding principles of the American political economy and the Western moral tradition.
Position Summary: As a program intern, you will embark on a structured educational journey guided primarily by advanced doctoral and MA students serving as research advisors and mentors. This role provides comprehensive academic resources, expert lectures, and specialized workshops designed to enhance your readiness for graduate studies. Faculty interaction is streamlined to enrich this experience, with opportunities to attend two class sessions per semester, ensuring hands-on learning and professional development under the mentorship of seasoned scholar-practitioners.
Intern Benefits
- Preferred Admission: Upon successful completion of the National Security, Intelligence, and International Affairs Research Internship and Graduate Pathway Program gain access to preferential consideration for IWP’s master’s degrees.
- Educational Credits: Eligible to receive $3000 per semester intern scholarship, which can be applied directly toward tuition for the MA degree program.
- Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships are available.
Key Responsibilities
- Group Research Project: Under the guidance of an IWP Research Advisor, interns will collaborate with a team of peers to conduct and complete a final research product. This initiative not only hones critical research skills but also provides an opportunity for the findings to be published. Interns will apply their deepened understanding of national security, international affairs, and intelligence in a practical, evaluative setting, showcasing their ability to analyze and synthesize complex information.
- Engage in Educational Activities: Attend all scheduled seminars, workshops, and lectures, including sessions on intelligence/policy briefings, and debates.
- Complete Assignments: Complete all readings, practical assignments, and participate in wargames and simulations reflecting real-world scenarios.
- Collaborate on Projects: Work with fellow interns on group projects to enhance learning and share insights.
- Utilize IWP Scholar Practitioner Guidance: Benefit from the expertise of IWP Scholar Practitioners, encompassing doctoral students, faculty, and key staff members, to deepen your understanding of complex topics in national security, international affairs, and intelligence.
- Participate in Site Visits and Networking: Join federal site visits and networking events to understand national security policy implementation and connect with industry leaders.
- Support IWP Mission: Actively support and embody IWP’s mission, committing to ethical leadership and a thorough understanding of international realities.
Please Note: This internship is designed to enrich your academic and professional development beyond monetary compensation. This is not a paid internship. Class credits are not transferable.
Qualifications
- Current juniors, seniors or recent graduates of Political Science, International Relations, Security Studies, or a related field.
- Demonstrated interest in national security, intelligence, and international affairs.
- Strong analytical, writing, research, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team in a demanding academic environment.
Application Submission: Applicants must first complete a short screening form to help us assess their qualifications. Qualified candidates will then be invited to participate in a recorded interview.
Selection Process: A representative from the Institute will reach out directly if your application progresses to the next stage. If you do not hear from us, please consider this as an indication that your application has not been selected for further consideration.
