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Political Science Internship Jobs in Madison, WI

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Political Science Internship information

See Madison, WI salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do political science internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for political science internship in Madison, WI is $17.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a political science internship?

A political science internship is a temporary position that allows students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in fields related to government, public policy, advocacy, or research. Interns may work with governmental agencies, non-profits, think tanks, or political campaigns, assisting with tasks such as research, policy analysis, event planning, and communications. These internships provide valuable exposure to real-world political processes and can help interns build professional networks and skills for future careers in politics or public service.

What types of projects or assignments can I expect during a political science internship?

As a Political Science intern, you'll typically engage in a variety of projects such as conducting research on policy issues, drafting briefing materials, assisting with data analysis, and supporting event planning or outreach efforts. Interns often collaborate closely with policy analysts, legislative staff, or advocacy teams, gaining exposure to both independent and team-based work. The scope of your assignments may vary depending on the organization, but you'll likely develop strong analytical, writing, and communication skills while contributing to real-world political or policy initiatives.

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

To excel as a Political Science Intern, you need a solid understanding of political theories, research methods, and current affairs, often supported by coursework in political science or related fields. Familiarity with data analysis tools, research databases, and presentation software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, written communication, and teamwork skills make candidates stand out in this role. These abilities are vital for contributing meaningful insights, supporting research projects, and effectively collaborating in a dynamic policy or governmental environment.

What is the difference between Political Science Internship vs Political Analyst?

AspectPolitical Science InternshipPolitical Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in political science or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in political science, public policy, or related field; sometimes requires experience
Work EnvironmentInternship programs in government agencies, NGOs, or political campaignsResearch firms, government agencies, think tanks, or media outlets
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and entry-level positions for gaining experienceProfessional role analyzing political trends, policies, and public opinion

In summary, a Political Science Internship is an entry-level opportunity for students to gain experience in political environments, while a Political Analyst is a professional role focused on analyzing political data and trends. Internships often serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a Political Analyst.

What internships can you get as a political science internship major?

Political science internship majors can pursue internships in government agencies, political campaigns, non-profit organizations, policy research institutes, and legislative offices. These internships often involve research, policy analysis, communication, and advocacy, providing practical experience in political processes and public affairs.

Which internship is best for political science students?

The best internships for political science students are those offered by government agencies, political parties, non-profit organizations, or think tanks, providing experience in policy analysis, research, and advocacy. These internships often require strong research, communication skills, and familiarity with political processes, and may be available during summer or semester schedules.

What are the most commonly searched types of Political Science jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Political Science jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Political Science Internship jobs in Madison, WI?

For Political Science Internship jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Political Science Internship jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Political Science Internship jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Political Science Internship jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Political Science Internship job openings:

Political Science Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Science Internship job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,269 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Community Development Intern

City of Whitewater, WI

Whitewater, WI • On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Temporary

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary: $12.00 - $15.00 Hourly
Location : Municipal Building, 312 W. Whitewater Street, Whitewater, WI
Job Type: Limited Term/Seasonal/Internship
Job Number: 2026-CD01
Department: Community Development Department
Opening Date: 08/19/2026
Closing Date: 9/13/2026 11:59 PM Central
Job Summary
The Community Development Intern will be responsible for assisting the Community Development Department and other City staff with coordination and execution of a Downtown Activation Initiative.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary.
Percentages are approximate and will flex with the intern's course schedule and the Initiative's event calendar.
Focus AreaSample TasksApprox. TimeFirst Street Inventory & Activation Planning
• Complete the inventory of existing public assets available or needed for First Street (benches, planters, barricades, tables/chairs, other publicly owned assets), and coordinate with the Public Works Department on these items as needed
• Draft a First Street activation plan summarizing inventory findings and near-term tactical placemaking opportunities (movable seating, lighting, wayfinding, temporary art) for Director/Coordinator review
• Support City staff in brief research on comparable communities' tactical placemaking and DORA approaches
• Communicate with businesses adjacent to the planning area on an as needed basis
• Follow up support on placemaking recommendations made by City staff or third-party consultants
35%Business Pop-Up Event Coordination
• Conduct outreach to downtown businesses to gauge interest in hosting pop-up or activation events (live music, sidewalk sales, outside art displays, collaborative programming)
• Assist participating businesses with event logistics: scheduling, vendor coordination, signage
• Track events and businesses participating in the Downtown Event Activation Partner Pilot and help compile documentation for grant reimbursement
35%Front Window Artwork Installations
• Coordinate with vacant/participating storefront owners to schedule window art, murals, and temporary display installs under the Window Activation Program
• Serve as a liaison to preferred partners (UW-Whitewater Dept. of Art and Design, Whitewater Arts Alliance, Whitewater Unified School District) to help source artists/artwork
• Track small grant awards and maintain before/after photo documentation of installs
20%Reporting & Administrative Support
• Draft short progress updates for Director/Coordinator review
• Help track Initiative success metrics (events conducted, estimated attendance, participating businesses, activated windows) for the Council's Year 1 report
• General filing and records organization related to the Initiative
10%
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function.
• Currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate student (UW-Whitewater or comparable institution), preferably in political science/public administration, business, economics, urban and regional studies, environmental studies, communication, or a related field.
• Interest in local government, community development, or economic development.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable interacting with business owners and the public.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with GIS, Canva, or social media platforms preferred but not required.
• Able to work independently on assigned tasks and manage a part-time schedule around coursework.
• Must satisfactorily complete background check required by the City of Whitewater policy for the role's level of access.
Supervision Received and/or Exercised
Work is performed under the general supervision of the Community Development Director and Economic Development Coordinator.
Not eligible for benefits.
Direct Deposit required.

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