Internships at APA - APA Advocacy Office

The APA Advocacy Office is looking to hire an intern that is available to work during the months of January through June. We are particularly seeking interns who will reside in the DMV area for in-person opportunities, in addition to remote work. The Advocacy Office of the American Psychological Association represents the largest and most visible national presence advocating for psychology at the federal and state level. APA works with our members, coalition partners, Congress, and the Administration to pursue an advocacy agenda that includes critical policy issues that promote the discipline of psychology and the professions of psychologists in scientific, educational, public interest, health service practice and applied practice settings.

The Advocacy Office of the American Psychological Association represents the largest and most visible national presence advocating for psychology at the federal and state level. APA works with our members, coalition partners, Congress, and the Administration to pursue an advocacy agenda that includes critical policy issues that promote the discipline of psychology and the professions of psychologists in scientific, educational, public interest, health service practice and applied practice settings.

To achieve this mission, APA sponsors congressional briefings, secures funding for key federal research, health, education and criminal justice programs, and ensures policymakers are informed about the application of psychology to critical public policy issues. The Advocacy Office hires both paid and academic credit interns.

• We are seeking interns who will reside in the DMV for the duration of the internship to maximize their experience. This would allow for the intern to support and participate in functions in-person on Capitol Hill and APA Central Office.
• A student currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program of study, with an interest in psychology, political science, and/or public policy.
• Excellent writing, communication, and organizational skills.

• How APA operates as an association to promote psychology as a health profession and a science, and pursues its social justice mission.
• How APA utilizes psychological science to inform and influence the federal legislative process and influences public policy.
• Psychology’s unique contributions to federal and state policy in areas related to mental and behavioral health, health equity, education, criminal justice, and private industry.
• Intern projects vary, but may include assisting in reviewing advocacy materials, researching legislation or regulations, attending congressional hearings or events, drafting or reviewing articles for the website, and assisting with our grassroots network and outreach.

Job Location - Remote: APA internships may be considered for remote work eligibility as defined in APA’s Flexible Work Policy and are subject to approval. Remote work interns may not work from the following states or U.S. territories: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, U.S. Virgin Islands, Washington, Wyoming. 

To apply for our internship program, click on the “Apply Now” button.

For full consideration, please submit [a]:

• Cover Letter
• Rèsumè
• Optional – a writing sample

Please note that due to the high volume of applications, we request that students combine all application materials into one document (i.e. PDF) before submitting their application. Please note that we are not able to acknowledge each applicant; only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted by the hiring manager. If you have any questions, please email internship@apa.org. 

Final candidates will be required to successfully complete a background check as a condition of employment. Any required consent forms and additional information will be provided during the final stages of the hiring process.

The American Psychological Association is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected categories covered under local law.