The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City offers one of the most distinguished and enriching internship programs for students and emerging professionals interested in art, culture, and museum studies. Designed to cultivate the next generation of creative thinkers and museum leaders, MoMA internships provide a dynamic learning environment where participants gain practical experience, professional development, and exposure to the inner workings of one of the world’s leading art institutions.
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Program Overview
MoMA’s internship program welcomes individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who have a strong interest in modern and contemporary art. The museum offers both summer and academic-year internships, allowing students to apply their academic learning to real-world experiences. These internships are available in various departments, including curatorial, conservation, education, publications, visitor engagement, communications, and digital media. Each placement is carefully structured to align with the intern’s interests and career goals, providing a hands-on introduction to museum operations.
Interns have the opportunity to work directly with museum professionals and contribute to meaningful projects that support MoMA’s mission of connecting people with the art of our time. Whether assisting with exhibitions, cataloging works of art, or developing educational materials, interns play a vital role in enhancing the museum’s public offerings and research initiatives.
Learning Experience
The MoMA internship program emphasizes experiential learning and professional growth. Interns gain insight into the art world through daily assignments, departmental projects, and collaborations across the museum. A typical day might include researching artists, preparing exhibition materials, assisting in public programs, or supporting digital initiatives. This exposure helps interns understand how museums function as cultural, educational, and administrative institutions.
In addition to department-specific work, MoMA hosts a series of professional development seminars, gallery talks, and networking sessions. These events allow interns to interact with curators, conservators, educators, and other museum staff, providing a broader understanding of the museum field. Interns are also encouraged to attend museum events, lectures, and exhibitions, deepening their appreciation of modern and contemporary art.
Entry Criteria and Application Instructions
MoMA internships are open to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates from various disciplines. While an academic background in art history, studio art, or museum studies can be advantageous, MoMA also welcomes applicants from fields such as communications, digital media, education, and business.
The application process typically involves submitting a resume, cover letter, and short essays that demonstrate the applicant’s passion for art and museum work. Some departments may also request writing samples or project portfolios.
The selection process is competitive, reflecting MoMA’s reputation for excellence and commitment to nurturing exceptional talent. Interns are chosen based on their academic achievements, motivation, and alignment with the museum’s values of innovation, diversity, and cultural engagement.
Career Development and Impact
Completing an internship at MoMA can be a transformative experience. Many former interns have gone on to pursue careers in leading museums, galleries, cultural organizations, and academic institutions. The program equips participants with valuable skills in research, project management, and public engagement, all of which are essential for success in the art world. Beyond professional development, MoMA internships inspire a lifelong passion for creativity, cultural understanding, and artistic innovation.
MoMA internships serve as a remarkable gateway into the world of modern art and museum practice—an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to one of the most influential cultural institutions in the world.
Official Website
You can find a full rundown on the official website.