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  • Earn 15 credits toward ANY major
  • Receive $3,500​ stipend to assist with living expenses
  • Spend one semester in Harrisburg
  • Learn more about public policy
  • ​Network to make connections that will last a lifetime!

If you are interested in public policy, you have the opportunity to see it in action. By taking part in The Harrisburg Internship Semester (THIS), you can learn from Pennsylvania's policymakers and leaders, enhance your academic experience and prepare for life outside of the classroom.

Some of the skills you will sharpen while in Harrisburg include report and speech writing, research, and program design and evaluation. While policymakers bring their years of expertise to the table, you provide fresh points of view, making it an ideal partnership.​

 Spring 2020 Interns
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 Credits & Tuition

​You can earn 15 semester credit hours for THIS from the State System university in which you are enrolled—nine credits for the internship placement,three credits for completing a research project, and three credits for participation in an academic seminar. You are responsible for tuition and fees as in any other semester. A $3,500 stipend is provided to assist with living and other expenses.

 Internship Sites

​​The semester-long internship experience provides you with a variety of opportunities within the state government structure, including with both the legislative and executive branches, the Democratic and Republican parties, and a variety of agencies that are directly associated with Pennsylvania's state government.

Past internship sites include:

  • Governor's Policy Office
  • Lieutenant Governor's Office
  • Office of the Speaker of the House
  • House Majority and Minority Leaders
  • Department of State
  • Historical and Museum Commission
  • Department of Corrections
  • Department of Probation and Parole
  • Center for Rural Pennsylvania
  • Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
  • Department of Environmental Protection

 Apply Now

Interested in applying? Contact your State System university THIS coordinator​ ​to learn more about the program. While you should apply prior to the academic year you wish to participate, it's never too early to start asking questions and getting informed!

 Life After THIS

​At the conclusion of THIS, you will have a better understanding of state government, more specifically, the role of your inte​rnship site in public policy. THIS hopes to serve as a springboard for you to gain employment within a governmental setting. Quite often, employment opportunities are available within Pennsylvania's state government. You also can use this experience to go on to enroll in graduate school, law school, and other post-baccalaureate educational opportunities.


“The Harrisburg Internship Semester is the direct reason that I'm in my current position. THIS not only gives you exposure, but also the opportunity to demonstrate the skills you learned in a real-world setting. The internship also allows you to grow personally and professionally, all while making new friends and connections along the way.”​
Emily Holladay '15
Legislative Aide | Pennsylvania Department of Health