As a high school or college student interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice, law enforcement, or the legal system, you can gain invaluable real-world experience through an internship. Criminal justice internships allow you to go behind the scenes and get first-hand experience of how the justice system operates from the inside.

What are Criminal Justice Internships?

Criminal justice internships are temporary positions, often unpaid, that provide students the opportunity to work with professionals in law enforcement, the court system, correctional facilities, law firms, nonprofits, social services, and other fields. These internships can last anywhere from a few weeks to an entire semester or summer.

According to data from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), internships are the most important criteria for hiring new college graduates in the fields of criminal justice and law. The 2022 NACE survey found that 91.9% of employers place a premium on candidates with internship experience when recruiting for entry-level roles in law enforcement and legal professions.

The Hands-On Experience

By interning in a criminal justice setting, you will have the chance to observe and participate in real cases and situations that textbooks cannot easily replicate. You may find yourself sitting in on court proceedings, visiting jails or prisons, riding with police officers, interacting with probation officers or victim advocates, and much more.

“An internship allows our students to put the theory they learn in the classroom into real-world practice,” says Sandra Rodriguez, internship coordinator at the University of New Mexico’s Criminology Program. “It equips them with the skills, knowledge and experience sought by employers.”

Finding the Right Fit

When searching for criminal justice internship options, think about what area interests you most – law enforcement, court system, corrections, juvenile justice, etc. Research the types of internships available in your area that fit your goals.

Many colleges have internship coordinators who can guide you on opportunities and requirements. But you can also be proactive in finding internships independently through online searches, networking events, job fairs, and reaching out to organizations directly.

According to the American Bar Association, more than 200 law school clinics and field placement programs provide criminal defense litigation experience for students. The Bureau of Prisons, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and other federal agencies also offer internship programs for graduate students.

Since internships are competitive, apply early, prepare a strong resume and cover letter, and be ready to discuss your motivation and interest in the criminal justice field during the interview.

Benefits

In addition to invaluable practical training, internships allow you to begin building a professional network by making connections with potential future employers and mentors. They help strengthen interpersonal, communication and problem-solving abilities – skills that are important in criminal justice careers.

And for many students, an internship serves as a pivotal moment in determining whether a certain career path is really the right fit based on their first-hand experiences in the field.

According to NACE’s 2019 student survey, 56% of students who did internships received at least one job offer, and students who did internships were more likely to receive a job offer before graduation than those who did not intern. did not do.

Unpaid internships can present financial challenges, but options like federal work-study programs, scholarships, grants, and savings can help make criminal justice internships viable.

As you look toward the next steps in your criminal justice education and career, don’t overlook the immense value of an internship experience. The insights, skills and contacts you gain behind bars could be the key to unlocking your future success. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What do criminal justice trainees do?
Interns assist with case research, data analysis, court observations, and community outreach.

How can I find criminal justice internships?
Contact law enforcement agencies, courts, law firms, and nonprofits for internship opportunities.

Are criminal justice internships paid?
Some internships offer stipends or compensation, but many are unpaid, focusing on experience.

What skills can I gain from a criminal justice internship?
You will develop skills in research, analysis, communication, teamwork and critical thinking.

How can a criminal justice internship help my career?
Internships provide practical experience, networking opportunities, and insight into the criminal justice field, enhancing your resume and career prospects.

Also Read: Summer Break or Career Boost? Top Internships for High Schoolers.