Internships
A True Learning Experience
Internships at the Chicago History Museum are challenging, educational experiences designed for undergraduate and graduate students. Working alongside staff members in a tutorial arrangement, interns gain valuable skills and training in museum practice, archival administration, arts administration, and historical scholarship.
A Variety of Experiences
It takes a wide range of skills to run any museum, and the Chicago History Museum is no different. While specific projects fluctuate with the institution's needs and priorities, a diverse assortment of opportunities is generally available. Examples and, where available, open positions are noted here for your information.
Educational Programs and Planning
Education interns create youth outreach programs, develop curriculum materials and gallery guides, and research and coordinate special events and public programs.
> There are no Educational Programs and Planning internships available at this time.
Marketing and Communications
Marketing interns provide support for museum promotion, messaging, and integrated marketing. The intern will work with all members of the communications staff to develop and execute marketing strategy.
> Download the Marketing and Communications internship description (PDF)
Museum Administration
Museum Administration interns have the opportunity to learn vital skills in arts management and administration by assisting with fundraising, marketing, special-event planning, and other administrative projects.
> Download the Institutional Advancement internship description (PDF)
> Download the Human Resources internship description (PDF)
Research and Collections Care and Management
Research and Collections interns work with staff from the collections and research areas to develop and implement plans for the proper storage, conservation, and exhibition of the Museum's collection. Interns work with staff to improve description and access to original items and collections.
There are no Research and Collections internships available at this time.
Exhibition Design and Development
Design internships offer students opportunities to hone design, drafting, or carpentry skills while working alongside professional designers as they design and create new exhibition spaces.
There are no Exhibition Design and Development internships available at this time.
Multimedia
Students interested in either technical development or human-computer interaction design are encouraged to apply for a multimedia internship to work on the Museum's award-winning website and web projects.
There are no Multimedia internships available at this time.
Publications
Editorial interns assist in the authoring of a variety of publications, and graphic design interns assist in the creation of gallery guides, promotional materials, and other publications.
There are no Publications internships available at this time.
Visitor Services
Interns in the Visitor Services department encounter and engage visitors from all over the city, the U.S., and the world. Intern tasks might include staffing an interactive exhibition, greeting school groups, assisting at the reception area, or supporting work done behind the scenes.
There are no Visitor Services internships available at this time.
When to Apply
Summer internships are currently being posted. The application deadline for summer internships is March 1.
Applications for summer internships are generally considered between February and March, fall internships between June and September, and spring internships between October and January. Some winter session internships may be available depending upon institutional needs.
How to Apply
To apply for an internship, please use the online internship application form.
A completed application includes the following:
- a one-page personal statement describing your reasons for seeking an internship at CHM and what you hope to gain from the experience
- a resume outlining your educational, professional, and volunteer experiences
- contact information for two references
> Frequently Asked Questions about Museum internships (PDF, 46 KB)
Every effort is made to match the skills and interests of prospective interns with the needs and priorities of the department and the institution overall. The application materials will outline the specific qualifications requirements for individual projects. Applications are encouraged from African American, Asian American, Latino, and Native American applicants.
Please note that we cannot process incomplete applications; be certain to include all required materials.
Benefits
While CHM internships are unpaid, many students earn academic credit for their experience at the Museum. In addition, the following benefits are extended to all interns:
- 15% off merchandise in the Museum Store
- Discounted program admission
- Invitations to special events, exhibition openings, and receptions
- A free copy of Chicago History magazine
Individuals participating in the summer internship program will also have the opportunity to participate in educational seminars and enrichment programs exploring behind-the-scenes at the Museum and current issues in the museum field.
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