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Police Department Intern Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Police Department Intern information

What kinds of projects or tasks can a police department intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Police Department Intern, you may be involved in a range of tasks such as assisting with administrative work, research projects, data entry, and community outreach activities. Interns often help with organizing files, preparing reports, observing ride-alongs with officers, and supporting crime prevention programs. The experience provides exposure to various divisions within the department, allowing you to learn from sworn officers and civilian staff alike. Collaboration with different teams helps build a well-rounded understanding of law enforcement operations and can be valuable for those considering a future career in public safety.

What is the difference between Police Department Intern vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice Department InternPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or currently enrolled in college; some internships may require related courseworkHigh school diploma or GED; police academy training and certification
Work EnvironmentSupervised, educational setting within police departments, often part-time or seasonalFull-time, active duty in various law enforcement settings
Employer & Industry UsagePolice departments, law enforcement agencies, governmentPolice departments, law enforcement agencies, government
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Police Department Interns typically participate in educational or training programs within police departments, focusing on learning about law enforcement. Police Officers are fully trained law enforcement professionals responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public safety, and responding to incidents. The internship provides exposure and experience, while the police officer role involves active duty and full responsibilities.

What is a police department intern?

Police Department Interns are students or recent graduates who work temporarily within a police department to gain hands-on experience in law enforcement operations. Their responsibilities can include administrative tasks, assisting officers with research, participating in community outreach, and observing police procedures. Internships are designed to provide insight into the daily workings of a police department and help interns determine if a career in law enforcement is right for them. These positions are typically unpaid or offer academic credit and are an excellent way to build professional skills and network with law enforcement professionals.

What do you do as a police department intern?

A police department intern assists officers with administrative tasks, observes law enforcement procedures, and may participate in community outreach activities. The role provides exposure to police operations and often requires supervision and adherence to department policies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police department intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Department Intern, you typically need coursework or a background in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field, along with a demonstrated interest in law enforcement. Familiarity with Microsoft Office, police records systems, and basic research tools is often expected. Strong communication, discretion, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help interns stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for supporting department operations, maintaining confidentiality, and gaining valuable experience for potential future careers in law enforcement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Department jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Police Department jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Police Department Intern jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Police Department Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Department Intern job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Internship Fall 2026-Spring 2027 - SSB / IOD / MIOC / Internship

State of Michigan

Dimondale, MI • On-site

Internship

Posted 24 days ago


State Of Michigan rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 187 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description With questions or for more information about the State of Michigan Internship Program, please visit: State of Michigan Internship Program Overview ***Accepting Applications for The Fall 2026 through Spring 2027 Semesters*** The Michigan State Police (MSP) department provides 24-hour statewide quality police service for the safety and protection of the people and their property in the state of Michigan. Its primary responsibilities are to reduce the opportunities for crime, to reduce traffic accidents through diligent and fair enforcement of the laws of the state and to act as the first responder to any citizen's needs that can be addressed through the resources of the criminal justice system. The Michigan State Police are looking for a student intern to work in their Michigan Intelligence Operations Center (MIOC) as an Intelligence Operations Center intern.

Intern Responsibilities/Projects include: Review policy /procedures of the MSP and the MIOC Assist federal, state, local, and other agencies with ongoing criminal investigations Conduct data entry projects Conduct open-source research Work in various law enforcement databases Attend meetings and training as directed Perform special assignments as directed The Michigan State Police is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace that accepts, respects, and values the unique contributions of everyone. We are actively looking for individuals who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, and who reflect the communities we serve. Our members are expected to perform their tasks and duties in a bias-free manner, ensuring all persons are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.

Join us as we help build a Michigan where everyone feels safe and secure. The Michigan State Police (MSP) is a full-service policing agency with statewide jurisdiction, providing over 60 different services either directly to Michigan residents or in support of other law enforcement agencies. The MSP personnel most visible to the public are the uniform troopers whose primary responsibilities include traffic enforcement, crime prevention and investigation, and community engagement and service.

Required Education and Experience Students must be enrolled in a college or university with a major/minor in Criminal Justice or Intelligence studies or a related field. Applicants are also required to be, at a minimum, in their third year of academic studies. Preferred Skills/Qualifications: Minimum 3.0 GPA Basic understanding of criminal justice system Must pass background check/fingerprint screening (MSP cost) Commit 9-18 hours weekly in accordance with academic requirements Ability to work as a team and independently Self-starter who displays initiative and possesses excellent verbal and written communication skills Basic understanding of different social media platforms Proficient in Microsoft Word/Excel Selected applicants must be willing to commute to MSP Headquarters in Dimondale, MI

Internships are available Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additional Requirements and Information Please attach a cover letter, current resume, and transcripts

Your cover letter must include answers to the following questions. What qualities or attributes will you bring to the Michigan State Police. What are your career interests, goals, and plans.

Please be specific. What do you expect to gain from this internship experience. Please click on the link to download a Michigan State Police Criminal Background Authorization Form.

Once you complete the form please upload the form to the attachment section of your application along with your resume, cover letter, and college transcripts. This form will be required to be considered for an interview. Please click on the link to the form located on the job posting.

Please note: Applicants will be screened out for failure to attach the required resume, cover letter/memo, and (if applicable) official transcripts to their application. Accommodations If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the ADA coordinator for the agency that posted this position vacancy.


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