Summer Public Service Internships
The Rutgers Democracy Lab connects Rutgers students with high-impact summer internships that provide hands-on experience in public service, government, nonprofit organizations, and civic engagement.
Mission
Public service is an opportunity to turn your interests and skills into meaningful action. Rutgers summer public service internships give students the opportunity to work directly with government offices, nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, and other organizations addressing real-world challenges.
Opportunities Overview
Rutgers students can gain the experience, knowledge, and connections needed to become more engaged citizens and future leaders through the following programs:
- Rutgers Scarlet Service Internship (RSSI) Program (NJ/NY/PA)
- Rutgers-Eagleton Washington Internship Award Program
- Rutgers Scarlet Service D.C. (RSS-DC)
Summer Public Service Internships
Summer internships where Rutgers students gain hands-on public service experience, mentorship, and civic impact while building skills and career networks.
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The Rutgers Scarlet Service Internship (RSSI) provides selected Rutgers students with high-impact summer internship experiences at public service nonprofit organizations and direct-service government offices in the New Jersey, New York City, and Philadelphia region.
Students gain hands-on professional experience while participating in a concurrent three-credit course focused on public service, civic engagement, and career readiness.
Program Highlights
- $5,000 student stipend
- 3 credits funded, asynchronous internship course
- 150+ hours minimum internship commitment
- 10–12 weeks summer internship experience
What Students Do
RSSI interns work with public service organizations on projects that address real community needs. Past interns have worked in areas including community services, advocacy, nonprofit management, food access, LGBTQ+ rights, international affairs, and urban agriculture.
Students also participate in program events, field trips, professional development opportunities, and a celebration following the summer experience.
Who Can Apply?
This program is designed for current Rutgers sophomores and juniors from New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden who meet the program's academic and eligibility requirements. Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA, be in good standing, and be able to travel to an internship site in the NJ/NYC/Philadelphia region.
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Rutgers Scarlet Service Internship Program
Learn more about Rutgers Scarlet Service and apply -
The Rutgers-Eagleton Washington Internship Award Program provides financial support to Rutgers undergraduate students pursuing summer internships in Washington, D.C. The program awards up to $6,000 to help offset the costs of completing an in-person internship in the nation's capital.
Students from all Rutgers campuses, majors, and class years are encouraged to apply.
Program Highlights
- Up to $6,000 award to offset summer living expenses
- Washington, D.C. in-person summer internship
- Open to all Rutgers undergraduates across disciplines
Where Can Students Intern?
Eligible internships can be with:
- Government offices or agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
- Advocacy organizations
Internships must be in person in Washington, D.C., generally requiring at least three days per week onsite.
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to Rutgers undergraduate students from New Brunswick, Camden, Newark, and Rutgers Health, across all majors and class years. Students must complete an in-person summer internship in Washington, D.C., with a minimum commitment of 120 hours.
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Learn more about the Rutgers-Eagleton Washington Internship Award
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Rutgers Scarlet Service in Washington, D.C. (RSS-DC) gives Rutgers undergraduates the opportunity to spend the summer working in Washington, D.C., while gaining professional experience, developing civic and career skills, and engaging with a community of Rutgers students and alumni.
Selected students intern with government offices or public service nonprofit organizations and participate in a concurrent three-credit course focused on public service and professional development.
Program Highlights
- $3,800 student stipend
- 3 credits funded internship course
- Summer public service experience
- Program-supported housing
What Students Do
RSS-DC interns work with government offices and public service nonprofits throughout Washington, D.C. Past students have interned with organizations including federal agencies, congressional offices, national nonprofits, and advocacy organizations.
Students also participate in:
- A three-credit in-person course
- Professional development activities
- Campus seminars
- Networking opportunities in Washington, D.C.
- Events with Rutgers alumni and public service professionals
- An end-of-program celebration
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to Rutgers sophomores and juniors from all schools. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, be in good standing, be able to live in Washington, D.C. during the internship, and have an interest in government and/or public service.
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Learn more about Rutgers Scarlet Service in Washington, D.C.
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