NDU faculty and staff with diverse academic and military backgrounds mentor program participants. Interns will gain pertinent, real-world experience through participation in academic programs, research, and interaction with federal agency representatives. Additionally, program participants may choose to get involved in the full range of social and recreational opportunities offered at Fort McNair. Living in Washington DC will provide access to a wide variety of cultural resources and government facilities in the metropolitan area.

We are currently seeking interns with varying academic backgrounds. In addition to research and regional studies positions, the University has opportunities in a variety of support roles to include: information technology, audio/visual support, protocol, operations, library science, and health and fitness.

Program Incentives May Include:

• Earn college credit (based on the individual's home university).
• Potential to earn scholarship money and/or a stipend.
• Gain relevant experience while focusing directly on current world issues.
• Experience the nation’s capital and work on historic Fort Lesley J. McNair.
• Work with a senior staff of respected regional experts and international scholars.
• Spend the semester studying world issues that are important or interesting to you.

Statements from Previous Interns:

“Before coming to the National Defense University, my work-experience was limited to the typical part-time employment of most high school and college students, and none of them had prepared me for life in the professional sphere. NDU provided me the opportunity to meet and work with professionals who were willing and able to help me develop many skills crucial to anyone seeking a career in public service, especially for those interested in national security and/or academics. While at NDU, I conducted research on many national security topics, prepared executive summaries, and provided analysis for NDU's senior leadership. I was also able to participate in meetings and briefings with officials from many sectors of the United States government. I benefited from a comprehensive orientation, I was quickly accepted as part of the team, and I was provided responsibilities commensurate with my position. I was also able to participate in a strategic exercise with a group of other interns that shed light onto just how intricate high-level decision-making can be. I feel my internship at NDU was a valuable part of my collegiate and professional experience, and I would recommend it to anyone interested in an academic internship or interested in developing valuable public service experience.”

-Nick, 2006, Towson State University, International Studies

“One of the incredible things about NDU is the diverse community present on the campus. As the University for the Defense Department of the United States, NDU provides a multitude of unique learning opportunities. As an intern, I was given the opportunity to attend conferences with heads of states, leaders of foreign militaries, and senior level officials and policy makers from the US government. I interned in the International Student Management Office, where I interacted daily with individuals from countries all over the world. I know of no other internship in D.C. that provides the opportunity to work so closely with high-ranking international visitors. Many of my friends who were interns elsewhere in D.C. had the occasional ‘moment’ where they interacted with high-profile individuals. As an intern at NDU’s International Student Management Office, I didn’t just meet amazing people who are changing the world for their countries, I called them friends.”

-Letty, Brigham Young University, 2006, History Education and English

“My time spent at NDU allowed me the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals in the national security and intelligence fields. This opportunity taught me the value of writing analysis reports and I gained a keen sense of the intelligence community framework and apparatus. I feel privledged to have been part of the NDU internship program. “

-Michael, George Washington University, 2006, History and Security Policy Studies, International Relations

Application Process:

Provide the following to the address listed below:

• A resume including name, school, area(s) of study, grade point average, and expected graduation date.
• A cover letter identifying areas of academic interest, personal expertise, and reason you’d like to intern at the National Defense University. (Cover letters should not exceed one page.)
• Writing Sample: The writing sample should be no more than three pages, and may be on any topic of the applicant's choice.
  NOTE: Participants must be currently enrolled at an accredited university or college.

Contact Information:

Intern Program
Office of Academic Affairs
300 5th Ave SW
Washington, DC 20319
intern@ndu.edu