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 Public Programs Intern will work within the Learning & Engagement Department to support the Public Programs team. The Public Programs team curates accessible, art-inspired experiences, offering a broad range of opportunities that inspire creativity, incite dialogue and bring the Museum’s mission to life. From artist talks to hands-on workshops, screenings and performances, Public Programs unites the Museum’s diverse adult audiences. The team aims to demystify creative practices, dismantle cultural and intellectual hierarchy, and expand the ways our audiences connect with art and artists. We do this by approaching programming from a place of intellectual curiosity, trust, and experimentation. Our intern will pursue independent research to support the development of public programs and partnerships, as well as gain hands-on experience supporting the Museum’s seasonal programming. As time and projects allow, they also will gain hands-on experience in arts administration, coordinating program operations, and interfacing with a variety of stakeholders. As Public Programs regularly interfaces with other Museum Departments, the internship provides a unique opportunity to observe the many collaborators and workflows involved in the production of public programs. The intern must possess excellent interpersonal skills, be proficient in research and writing, and be able to multitask whilst working independently.

Application Information 

The Fall 2026 season will feature eight internship positions: Communications, Curatorial, Director’s Office, Development, Education, Graphic Design, Public Programs, and Registrar. 

Applicants are encouraged to designate both a first and second choice for the positions they wish to be considered for. Due to the anticipated high volume of applications, only candidates chosen for interviews will receive direct communication regarding the status of their application.

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

Fall 2026 Program Dates: September 14, 2026 – December 18, 2026 (14-weeks) 

Requirements: 20 hours/week, during the workweek (M-F). Interns must work in-person three days of the week, with Tuesdays mandatory for interns. 

Stipend: $5,040

Application Deadline: 11:59 PM on July 27, 2026

Applicants will be notified about interviews by August 14, 2026

• If you have not heard back before the set date, you have not been considered as a finalist for the Fall 2026 cohort.

All interns must attend an in-person orientation day the morning of September 14, 2026, to commence their program.