https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2025-2026/AM_471125The internship is a compulsory part of the Master’s programme. The aims of the internship are:Learn to independently apply and expand your practical science communication skills in one particular area of the field (writing, multi-media, facilitation, policy and strategy development, content design, etc.). Critical self-assessment and reflection on acquired science communication competencies in the field. Conduct scientific research independently: assess scientific information, design a research project, apply scientific methods, collect data, report and discuss findings. Present and discuss about internship and research outcomes. Learn to cooperate with researchers and practitioners of various disciplines. Gain an impression of a potential future field of career.When you are enrolled in the VU Science Communication specialization or the UvA Major Science Communication you need to conduct one internship (30 ECTS, 5 months). MPA students that choose the Science Communication specialization also need to do at least one internship (30 ECTS, 5months) in the Science Communication field. The internship has two possible formats: the Research Internship and the Reflective Practice Placement. The complete and up-to-date information about the internship can be found in the SC internship guide line on Canvas (science communication community).Work-based placementWritten report and oral presentation. Within six weeks after the start of the master internship, an interim evaluation will take place to assess whether there is a reasonable chance of the placement being brought to a successful completion. The internship is supervised and assessed by two lecturers. Both lecturers are members of the academic staff at VU University Amsterdam. The day-to-day supervision can be carried out by a trainee research assistant (AIO), postdoc or researcher.Students MSc MPA year 2Participation in this compulsory component is only permitted if the student meets the relevant requirements for admission. These requirements are detailed in the Internship guideline MPA (on Canvas) and in the Academic and Examination Regulations. The work-based placement is subject to the FALW document: “Student placement (internship) and literature regulations”. These regulations require detailed written agreements between supervisors and student that specify the conditions for the Master research project. This agreement should be sent for approval by the MPA internship or master co-ordinator at least two weeks before the planned start of the work-based placement. If the proposal is of sufficient quality, you can start your internship. If not, you’ll need to adapt your proposal and send it for approval again. You can only start your internship after your research design has been approved. Information on Master internships is made available on Canvas.