A variety of internships are available
Students in various courses of study can apply.
The PSP Internship program offers a rewarding experience for students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs, including:
- Criminal Justice
- Homeland Security
- Intelligence Analysis
- Forensic Science
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physical Education
- Television and Media Production
- Education
- Cyber Security
General information
All PSP internships are unpaid positions in a troop, bureau, or office. These programs offer problem-solving, team interaction, and an understanding of the day-to-day operations of the department. Interns will work alongside personnel in varying assignments.
Troop and bureau internships are at least 160 hours, and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security internship is 120-180 hours.
Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and may be required to drive their personal vehicle to their assigned work location at their own expense.
Applicants must not have an adult conviction graded misdemeanor 2 or higher under Pennsylvania code or its equivalent for out-of-state and federal convictions.
Educational Requirements
Troop and Bureau intern applicants must:
- Be enrolled in an accredited bachelor’s degree program or higher
- Have satisfactorily completed 60 credits
- Meet any additional requirements as outlined below
Bureau of Forensic Services
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a chemistry, biology, forensic science, or closely related program
- Have satisfactorily completed 12 credits of chemistry
- Maintained a 3.0 or higher GPA
Forensic DNA Division applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a master’s degree program in a forensic science field
- Have satisfactorily completed 15 credits
Bureau of Training and Education
Internships are available in the following units:
- Education, Testing, and Curriculum Development Section
- Physical Education Unit
- Media Unit (TV/film/audio production, photography)
Applicants for the Education, Testing and Curriculum Development section must:
- Be enrolled in an accredited master’s degree program
- Have satisfactorily completed 15 credits
Bureau of Criminal Investigation
Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited bachelor’s degree program in criminal justice, homeland security, or a closely related field.
Governor’s Office of Homeland Security
Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited bachelor’s degree program in criminal justice, homeland security, political science, cyber security, or related fields.
More information on this internship can be found at the Pennsylvania Criminal Intelligence Center (PaCIC) and Homeland Security Internship page.
How to apply
Applicants must provide a current resume and a cover letter specifying:
- Future career plans
- Why the internship is desired
- The specific troop, bureau, or office for which the internship is requested
Available internships are posted on employment.pa.gov. Apply directly to any postings of interest.
If you have questions about PSP internships, send us an email.