About Our Organization

Founded in 1968, the Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. It is a site for the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society.

Internship Program Description 

The Museum’s Internship Program offers college undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates' valuable insights into the operations of a professional museum environment. Interns collaborate on meaningful and engaging projects with museum staff and participate in a series of meetings and workshops focused on contemporary museology. 

*Please note: Only individuals who are authorized to work in the United States are eligible for this program.*

Job Summary

The Director’s Office Intern will help develop and execute a diverse range of strategic initiatives. Responsibilities include assisting with projects that support the Director and Chief Curator and the Chief of Staff. Specific projects include institutional history and artist related research; drafting internal correspondence; creating presentations on behalf of the Director’s Office, administrative support; updating documents; logistical support; and another research as assigned. This position is suited for a candidate eager to gain familiarity with the administrative responsibilities and strategic planning required for a career in nonprofit organizational management and external affairs. Candidates should note that this is not a curatorial position; however, those individuals considering careers in the arts administration sector are encouraged to apply. Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite is required. Excellent research, writing and communication skills, as well as meticulous attention to detail, are essential.  

The Director’s Office internship is designed for college sophomores, juniors, seniors, recent graduates, and graduate students. 

Application Information 

Each internship cycle could include opportunities in the following departments: Communications, Collections, Curatorial, Director’s Office, Development, Education and Visitor Experience. 

Applicants are encouraged to indicate both a first and second choice among the listed departments. 

Due to the high volume of applications, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted directly. We appreciate your understanding. 

Application Materials: 
To be considered, applicants must submit the following

• Resume 

• A cover letter 

• A writing sample (no more than 5 pages) 

Dates and Details 

• Program Duration: January 12 – April 17, 2026 (14 weeks) 

• Weekly Commitment: 20 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Interns are required to be on-site at least three days per week, including mandatory full day attendance on Tuesdays. 

• Stipend: $5,292 

• Application Deadline: 11:59 PM EST on November 4, 2025 

• Interview Notifications Sent By: Dec 1, 2025, if you have not received communication by this date, we regret that you have not been selected as a finalist for the Spring 2026 cohort. 

• In November, we will be in the midst of programming for the Studio Museum’s opening. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this very busy time. 

Mandatory Orientation:  

All accepted interns must attend an in- person orientation on the morning of Monday, January 12, 2026, to begin the program.