The Kentucky Graduate Internship Scholarship

This program provides summer support for doctoral students in unpaid or underpaid internships that align with their research, but are not within academia or typical career fields associated with their degree program. The student is responsible for seeking, securing, and arranging the internship opportunity, with initial guidance from the Stuckert Career Center. For further details, see below:

Examples:

• A Political Science student applies their knowledge of a critical issue to work in a government agency focused on that problem.
• A Psychology student explores whether HR work is a fitting career direction.
• A Communications student helps an NGO develop campaign strategies.
• A Plant and Soil Sciences student addresses regional environmental issues.

Eligibility:

Doctoral students (PhD, EdD, DMA) who have passed their qualifying exams and completed at least three, but no more than six years toward their degree. Applications from advanced MFA students will also be considered.

Internships must be external to UK, at least partially in-person, and range in duration from 6 to 12 weeks (typically 20 hours per week). The internship should be with an organization based in or connected to Kentucky. Students may receive support of up to $5,000, depending on the internship's duration, commitment, and any compensation offered. The final amount and disbursement schedule will be determined by The Graduate School and will be outlined in the award letter and internship agreement.

Next Steps:

Students should first schedule an internship consultation appointment with Abbie Wood via the Stuckert Career Center's platform, Handshake. Directions are Here.

Utilizing Graduate School programs such as ImaginePhD and Beyond the Professoriate will help foster readiness to pursue an internship opportunity. Additional guidance is available through faculty in the student’s discipline and the Graduate School’s Office of Graduate Student Professional Enhancement. Contact abbie.wood@uky.edu for more details.

Before Applying:

Be sure to have the following documents ready for upload. The application portal will remain open until April 21, 2025. (See the rolling application timeline below.) 

*Please note that the application deadline may close earlier than expected if we receive a high volume of applications

Required Documents:

• An essay (2-4 pages, double-spaced) explaining how the internship relates to the applicant’s degree and career interests.
• A letter from the internship supervisor explaining the duties.
• A letter from the DGS affirming the student’s good standing and listing the professional enhancement activities they have engaged in.

Internship Agreement:

Students selected for the program will complete an internship agreement, which will be kept on file in their program and the Graduate School. Recipients are required to submit two reports—one midway through the internship and another upon completion—answering questions as to how the internship has helped them develop new skills and gain career-relevant experience. Recipients will also be required to submit a brief note from their internship supervisor along with the midpoint reflection confirming their continued progress in the internship.

Application Timeline:

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. The application will open February 10 and close April 21*. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible. Students can expect to hear the application decision no later than one month after submitting.

*Please note that the application deadline may close earlier than expected if we receive a high volume of applications.

For questions about the status of your application or to request an earlier decision, please email abbie.wood@uky.edu.