Political Science 

Political Science goes beyond laws–it’s about power, justice, and how society functions. Enrichment programs can deepen your understanding of politics and public policy, with applications often due early in the year. Most of the internships have an acceptance rate of 20% or lower, so it is recommended to apply to multiple internships and not just one. 

Programs

  1. New York City Office of the Mayor Internship Program - A paid summer internship for NYC high school students, offering hands-on experience in municipal government across departments. Interns conduct policy research, assist with events, draft briefings, and participate in a Speaker Series featuring senior city officials. The program also includes a service-project component, where interns design and implement community initiatives. 

  2. Columbia Pre-College Programs — Residential students could enjoy the convenience of being steps away from class and campus resources and can easily attend daily activities. Students will choose from over 70 courses in a dozen areas such as political science. Classes are taught by expert instructors. Students will earn a Columbia University Certification of Participation and an evaluation written by their instructor when the course is successfully completed.  

  3. Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) Internship Program –  Offers internships for high school students interested in foreign policy and international relations. Interns assist with research, writing, and event planning, and may have opportunities to publish work on FPRI’s Intern Corner. 

  4. ACLU – The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) offers free or unpaid internships for high school students passionate about civil liberties, political advocacy, and public policy. Interns may assist with campaign outreach, legal research support, and organizing public education events. Participants will gain hands-on experience in civil rights advocacy while learning about government, law, and social justice from professionals in the field. 

  5. Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) – The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) offers a remote or in‑person free, unpaid political science internship tailored to high school students interested in international relations, public policy research, and civic engagement. They have opportunities to draft research papers, assist in policy analysis, and participate in weekly foreign policy seminars and career workshops led by experts in global affairs. 

  6. Ladders For Leaders — This is a nationally recognized program that offers outstanding high school and college students to participate in paid summer internships with leading corporations and government agencies in NYC. Students can receive 30 Hours of pre-employment training. 

  7. NYU High School Law Institute (HSLI) — This is a student-run organization that serves talented high school students throughout NYC. This is a free program that offers courses in political science, such as constitutional law, criminal law, and speech and debate. Courses are taught by current NYU Law and undergraduate students who were trained by NYU Law faculty. 

  8. Journey to Leadership Program — This program’s mission is to inspire high school students to become 21st century leaders as well as creative participants in political science fields. This program provides the skills and the learning needed for the current generation of women to gain the knowledge and confidence. 

  9. Pre-College Programs - Barnard College – Students enroll in a 3-credit course taught by members of Barnard’s world faculty. Courses are held on campus for 7-weeks and are fast paced and rigorous. Additionally this program offers a limited amount of need-based financial aid for those who are qualified. 

  10. The Temple of Understanding’s Summer Internship Program — Students in this program are able to attend open meetings of the United Nations security Council, General Assembly, and many others. This program launches their career to citizens who care about humanitarian goals. This program has the opportunity to learn about different religions through visiting and participating in community volunteer work.