The Smithsonian Women’s History Internship Program 2026 is a paid summer internship based in Washington, DC, designed to highlight women’s contributions to history and culture. The program supports projects that expand public understanding of women’s stories, improve digital access to historical narratives, and engage diverse audiences through research, communication, and museum work.
Running from June 8 to August 7, 2026, the internship brings together a small cohort of interns to work closely with Smithsonian professionals on focused projects. Although hosted in the United States, the program is relevant to Nigerians and other Africans studying or recently graduated in the U.S. who are interested in history, media, education, museums, or public engagement.
Internship Areas
In 2026, interns will be selected for one of the following project areas:
Advancement Operations
Interns support internal operations and learn how fundraising, administration, and institutional support functions contribute to large cultural organizations.
Communications Program – “Beyond Notable”
This role focuses on improving online visibility for historically significant women who lack adequate digital representation. Interns conduct original research and write engaging blog content to bring these stories to wider audiences.
Digital Program – Community Engagement
Interns help design and deliver digital learning programs that educate and inspire audiences globally about women’s history and its future relevance.
Museum Administration
This role provides insight into how museums are planned and managed, including funding, staffing, policy compliance, technology systems, and asset management.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Applicants must be current U.S. college students or recent graduates who completed their studies within 12 months of June 2026
Applicants must be at least 18 years old
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required
Applicants from diverse backgrounds, including community colleges and nontraditional learning pathways, are encouraged to apply
This opportunity is particularly suitable for African students and graduates in the U.S. with interests in history, communications, digital media, education, or cultural institutions.
Benefits
Selected interns receive financial and professional support, including:
A weekly stipend of $1,200 for the duration of the internship
Reimbursement for travel to and from Washington, DC
Hands-on experience with a globally respected cultural institution
Professional exposure to museum operations, research, and public engagement work
Application Process
The application process is competitive and time-sensitive:
- Prepare academic and personal information required for the online application
- Submit the completed application through the official internship portal
- Ensure submission is completed before the deadline or before the application cap is reached
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and may close early once the maximum number is reached.
Important Dates
Application opens: January 12, 2026
Application deadline: February 12, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET
Internship period: June 8 to August 7, 2026
Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible.
Official Link
Smithsonian Women’s History Internship Program
https://womenshistory.si.edu/internships
