England > Programs > London Parliamentary Internship

Arcadia London Parliamentary Internship

An in-depth insight into the evolution of British politics
An unparalleled opportunity to play a part in the day-to-day running of a British Parliamentary office
Interns develop an insider's perspective on the British political process

Program

Internship

As the political center of Great Britain, the city of London has always been the most exciting place to observe the evolution of British politics, and, of course, to study Political Science. As a Parliamentary intern, you will contribute to the everyday operations of important figures in British politics.

You will also develop an insider’s understanding of how the British legislature – the House of Commons and the House of Lords – makes policy ideas into law.

The work of a Parliamentary intern involves a wide variety of tasks, including research, writing speeches, preparing briefings, responding to letters, and addressing the needs of the electorate. Even some of the more basic administrative tasks such as responding to letters from constituents (which may involve requesting a response from a minister) will provide invaluable insight into the British system of representative government.

The work of an intern might also include attendance of meetings, conferences, events, and special sessions of the Standing and Select Committees. Many interns visit their MP’s constituency – this will introduce you to other areas outside London, and allow you to learn about the area you represent in your MP’s London office.

You might even learn from other interns about how decisions are made in the ‘smoke-filled rooms.' Indeed, there is so much to learn in the corridors of power.

In combining your enthusiasm with your academic experience, you will soon begin to understand how your contribution is relevant to the bigger picture – you and others in your position will ultimately play a part in the making of law, the implementation of policy, the practice of democracy, and the promotion of British values such as fair play. You will also – in true British fashion – make very many cups of tea!

Coursework

Your semester program consists of both the occupational component and a corresponding academic structure. Supporting this unique cooperative experience is a full complement of coursework, and you will choose your classes from an array of specially-taught courses which take full advantage of the city’s rich artistic, literary and historical resources, or from a range of options available at London's City University

Two of your classes will pertain directly to your placement and the lessons gathered there. LONI SOSM 360: Diversity in the British Workplace is a course that will help you explore the issues related to the professional culture of the UK.

The second course, LON INPR 310 Work in Thought and Action provides a forum for you to meet with your academic internship advisor regarding your internship and the project you will complete as a corollary to your placement. A research paper is a required component of this course.

Credits

You will earn the following hours of credit.

Fall semester: 13-16 credits.
Spring semester: 14-16 credits.

Admission Requirements

GPA Requirements: 3.2 or better on a 4.0 scale.

You must be in good academic standing and not on disciplinary probation. You need to submit a complete application including a transcript, letter of recommendation, and an advisor's form before your application will be considered.

All internship applicants should submit the following documents in addition to the general application: a current resume (include computer/software skills); a one-page, written statement detailing your reasons for pursuing a specific internship, and the skills and experiences that you have obtained which make you a good candidate; and a field work request and two special placement forms. You may download the special internship forms here.