If you're interested in a challenging, rewarding work experience,
the Rhode Island State Internship Program may be just what
you're looking for.
Get Involved
Students are placed in the legislative, executive or judicial
branches of government, as well as various departments and agencies
within state government. The program has a wide selection of
placements - many are legal placements, geared towards law students,
as well as undergraduates interested in a legal career. The
Department of the Attorney General, the Public Defender's Office,
and judicial clerkships are some examples of placements. Others
include: Department of Health, Department of Administration, which
include, but are not limited to, environmental sciences, human
services, computer programming and engineering.
Spring Semester program
Intern responsibilities for the spring semester include
working 8-10 hours per week within the field placement. Attending a
weekly lecture series, completing a paper and an exam are required
for academic credit. A program is also available to those students
not wanting to participate in the lecture series. Students may
obtain applications through an academic adviser, or by contacting
the Internship Office.
Summer program
Responsibilities and schedules for summer internships vary
depending upon the placement. The summer program is an eight-week
program (June through August) funded through the General Assembly. A
stipend is available to all Rhode Island residents attending an
out-of-state college or university.
Internships for Students with Disabilities
All students with disabilities are eligible to partake in a
Rhode Island Government Intern Program, including the Summer
Internship Program. The program is eight weeks in duration, from
June to August. The goal of the program is to place students in
governmental agencies for purposes of enabling these students to
gain awareness of the governmental process, and to provide
opportunities to develop academic skills and pursue career
goals. Students are eligible for a $20 per day stipend based on
seven hours per day. Most students work 2-3 days a week.
Link here to view the RI Governor’s Commission on Disabilities
Webpage.
Law Students: Get Practical Experience
Article II, Rule 9(A) of the rules of the Rhode Island Supreme
Court allows senior law students to participate in the legal process
by conducting research and actual litigation. Rule 9 requirements
are as follows:
~Senior status in an accredited law school
~Good academic standing
~Completion of a trial practice or evidence course.
NOTE: a letter from the Dean on behalf of the applicant is
also required, verifying the above.
Eligibility
For all Rhode lsland residents attending an out-of-state
college or university, applicants should have completed two full
years of college or be accepted/enrolled in a graduate or law school
program before applying. Applicants must be in good academic
standing and maintain a 2.5 GPA or better. Academic credit is
possible, if permitted by the student’s college or university.
Alternative programs
Other informal programs are available to students who otherwise
are not eligible for either the Spring or Summer Programs.
Students receiving academic credit and or work study funds can
apply for a Fall or Winter session internship or an independent
study for any time period. Students from the various technical
and business schools may begin an internship at any time. Both
require a minimum of 8-10 hours per week unless otherwise
specified by the student's academic advisor.
Would you like more information?
If you are interested in receiving
information for a Rhode Island State Government Internship, you
may either reply to the address below or click
HERE to request information electronically.