Game Design Internship

Smithsonian Science Education Center Internships

Eligibility for Interns

As there are a wide range of opportunities for learning, age and/or educational requirements are listed on each internship. If you can find an internship opportunity that matches your education and/or career goals, we encourage you to apply!

Application Deadline

The application period for our Fall 2025 internships is August 29, 2025.

Application and Selection Process

To apply, go to the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA) and create an account. After you have created an account, you can begin your application and select your first, second, and third choice of program areas of your interest (see program descriptions below).  Your application will be automatically submitted from SOLAA to the SSEC for consideration.  Do not send any application materials directly to SSEC! 

Your application will be reviewed by the staff at SSEC. You can view your application status in SOLAA at any time. After complete applications have been reviewed, only selected candidates will be contacted by telephone for a phone interview. Please submit your best work for a complete application!

2025 Internship Descriptions

Game Design Internship (Fall 2025)
Intern will work with the Smithsonian Science Education Center to gain hands-on experience in educational digital and physical game development and user-centered design. Learning objectives include:

• Develop skills in user testing facilitation, data analysis, and digital-to-print game adaptation.
• Understand the process of educational asset development in a nonprofit.
• Contribute to real-world projects with real social and educational impact
• Develop UI/UX asset animations (interactive animations to make simulations and games more dynamic and engaging), catering to the intern’s specific skill set whether its animation via coding or animation via illustration and front-end software development, propelling the digital team’s skills forward and providing an interesting challenge and project for the intern   
• User testing of Migratory bird game – gather feedback and improve UI
• Converting digital Climate Health game into print version
• Support with any Fall Game Labs – preparation, facilitation, and support/documentation
• Brainstorming/ ultimately pitching possible digital games ideas for upcoming Smithsonian Science for the Classroom Middle School project and associated unit- specific Performance Expectations (standards)

This internship will run for approximately 9-10 weeks between early October - early December 2025. Hours: 10-20 hours per week. We accept hybrid interns from undergraduate and graduate levels. We encourage both US-based and international candidates to apply. Stipends will be available.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for applications? SSEC open application period for our Fall 2025 internships is open now through August 29, 2025

Smithsonian Science Education Center Internships

Eligibility for Interns

As there are a wide range of opportunities for learning, age and/or educational requirements are listed on each internship. If you can find an internship opportunity that matches your education and/or career goals, we encourage you to apply!