The Directed Research Placement is open to full-time MA students in public and international affairs or security and defense studies who are not participating in cooperative education programs (co-op). By securing research internships in non-academic settings, this experiential learning opportunity enables students to acquire core professional competencies and skills to support careers across multiple pathways.
Settings will vary including startups, small and large corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. The placements allow students to expand their technical expertise and to acquire experiences related to working with collaborative teams and diverse individuals but also to build skillsets and knowledge in communication, innovation, leadership, and more.
The GSPIA does not guarantee internships for students due to variations in availability and external partnerships. The GSPIA encourages students to seek their own opportunities.