Program Overview

College students and young professionals have gained practical work experience as Museum apprentices since MoMA opened in 1929. In 1984, the Museum's Department of Education consolidated these apprenticeships into a formal program aimed at college juniors and seniors, recent graduates, graduate students, and beginning museum professionals. The Internship Program gives interns in-depth exposure to the workings of individual departments and practical and theoretical training in museum practices, and acquaints them with the role of museums in contemporary society. Working under the supervision of one of the Museum's professional staff, interns contribute to timely projects, gain insight into the functions of individual departments, and learn about the Museum's various collections, exhibitions, and programs for visitors. Internship projects are based on Museum needs and requirements and are assigned to interns with the appropriate skills and interests.

The Department of Education organizes a weekly lecture series and training programs that enable interns to reflect on current issues and debates in the museum field. Interns meet with curators, educators, and other key Museum staff who provide a broader understanding of the Museum's mission, collections, and organizational systems. Curators give talks in conjunction with the Museum's exhibitions, and interns are invited to visit specific departments to become familiar with the spectrum of daily activities behind the scenes at MoMA.

Please visit the links at the top of this page for more details about the Internship Program.

Pictured above:
Twelve-Month and Summer Interns deliver public gallery talks at the Museum. Photo: Sara Bodinson