CU Public Interest Internship Experience (PIIE)

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The CU Public Interest Internship Experience (PIIE) Program was established in 2006 to connect students interested in civic engagement with paid internships at nonprofits and government agencies. PIIE was the first of its kind among public universities in the nation and has become increasingly competitive since its first summer. Now in its 19th year, PIIE has provided more than 200 internships in fields ranging from animal welfare to education, health, law, sustainability and more.

Applications for spring 2025 are now open and due on December 1, 2024 by 11:59 pm. Please email cupiie@colorado.edu with any questions.

Organizations and internship postings for CU PIIE spring 2025:

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Important Dates
  • Nov. 12:Ìý
  • Dec. 1: Applications due by 11:59 p.m.
  • Dec. 1– Jan. 6: Applications reviewed by PIIE and host organizations. Interviews conducted during this time and offers will be made.
  • Jan. 14: Deadline for students to accept or decline received offers.

Once students submit their full application, they will be initially reviewed by the PIIE committee to identify potential candidates. Successful applications will then be sent to host organizations. Employers will then contact candidates to set up interviews.

By the middle of January, all PIIE internships will have offers made and accepted. The CU PIIE director will work with applicants who do not receive an internship offer by providing resources that may help them in their future.

  • In order to be eligible for a CU PIIE internship, a student must:

    • Eligible for a work study award. If you're not sure of your eligibility for a work study award, please contact Student Employment by email Studentemployment@Colorado.edu or call 303-492-5091.

    • Be a full-time undergraduate at CU Boulder

    • Be in good academic standing with a GPA of 2.5Ìý

  • Interns are matched with an advisor for the semester (typically a CU staff member) who acts in a mentorship capacity and provides support throughout the semester
  • Interns participate in professional development activities with Career Services to learn more about skills they are gaining and reflect on their experiences
  • View the internship descriptions above and pick your top two choices.
  • Complete all necessary forms and create materials needed.
  • Submit yourÌý no later than 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 1.
Application Materials

If you are a recipient of a CU PIIE internship, you must be able to:

  • Fulfill all responsibilities of their internship, including traveling to and from the host organization.
  • Attend a PIIE orientation, professional development activities, and other events to be determined.
  • Meet with your designated advisor at least twice throughout the semester.