Internship modules

Civil Society Internship

Civil society is one of the central institutions of modern democratic societies, along with the state and the market. Activists and social movements are key political actors in both domestic and international politics. Our students study aspects of civil society and social movements, and many engage in democratic activism. 

The Civil Society Internship offers students practical experience in civil society and political activism through placements with Citizens UK. Students develop leadership and civic engagement skills by working within the community, organising and campaigning teams. This module is designed to give those who take it a view of civil society and political activism from the inside out.

 

Parliamentary Studies Internship 

Westminster Parliament is at the centre of the UK’s political system, performing a variety of important functions such as representation, scrutiny, and law-making. Politics students at Queen Mary learn about parliament throughout during their studies, including the main theories, practices, and academic theories. This placement module takes the learning further and deeper, allowing students to experience British parliamentary politics from the inside out.

Students work two days per week between January and April with a parliamentarian, either at Westminster or in constituency offices (or both). While the placement opportunity is intensive and often demanding, it provides experience and useful skills for students interested in a career in politics or politically related fields. Students who have taken the module in the past have described it as ‘an unparalleled learning experience’, and offering ‘a real insight into parliament’. Another student said: ‘I would definitely recommend everyone apply for this.’

Please note: to take the placement module, it is usually a pre-requisite for students to have first taken the main Parliamentary Studies module (taught in collaboration with the Houses of Parliament).