About the Organization

Scotland has a parliament with 'devolved' powers within the United Kingdom. The largest party in the Scottish Parliament is the Scottish National Party (SNP), but it does not hold an outright majority, so students can gain exposure to the workings of a both a parliamentary system, and a multi-party democracy, where coalitions must be built for legislation to take place.

The Scottish Parliament exists to identify and debate issues of importance to the people of Scotland and to legislate. It is designed to embody and reflect the sharing of power between the people of Scotland, the Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) and the Scottish Executive. In holds the Scottish Executive to account and is answerable to the people of Scotland. Scotland's Executive and Parliament are responsible for matters such as education, health and prisons, while decisions about matters with a UK or international impact are reserved and dealt with at Westminster for the United Kingdom (including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) as a whole. The Scottish Parliament assumed its full powers and duties on July 1, 1999.

The SNP (founded in 1934) is a democratic left-of-centre political party, and while not timetable is yet in place, it is committed to Scottish Independence from Great Britain.

Job Description

Interns will work with MSPs of the Scottish National Party or other parties researching topics of interest to the MSP including, but not limited to : economics, environment, drugs, crime, education, rural issues, trade with Europe and the EU and affordable housing. Internships may also involve speech writing, press relations or working in the Group research office. There will be opportunities to interact with interest groups, constituents, public officials, MSPs and other parliament staff. Previous interns have also been involved in drafting motions and Parliamentary Questions to assist with research. This internship provides students with a rich and varied opportunity to be hands on in Scottish politics, and invaluable experience working within a national system of governance.

At the time of applying, interns can make known their particular interest within the broader field of politics/government, and an effort will be made to place them with an MSP who is specifically involved in those policy areas.

# of Positions per term

Multiple

Start Dates

Fall, Winter or Spring Terms.  Summer not available.

Duration of Internship

1 Term

Academic Background

Political Science, International Studies, Communications, Economics, Environmental Studies, Public Health, Public Policy, Public relations, English, History - all are amongst the majors that might be interested in this opportunity. Placement with the Parliament is not limited by major, as much as linked to an interest in politics/governance, and demonstration of skills that will be of use to the MSP.

Skills/Experience

While no prior experience with Scottish or British politics is necessary, interns must demonstrate a willingness to learn and to think in terms of Scottish politics rather than American. Interns should be strong communicators, careful researchers, and have the ability to work in both a self-directed environment, and with a strong commitment to team goals.

Language Ability

English

Other Requirements

Total costs vary depending on how long you plan to be abroad, where you will be living, your personal spending habits, and current exchange rates. The following estimates will give you a ballpark figure for this internship. Get help with the math from our handy Cost Calculator.

IE₃ Program Fee

The program fee* for the first term of any internship is $2950 - $3150. You do not pay tuition in addition to the program fee. Visit your University's IE₃ page for details, costs for additional terms, and campus administrative fees.

*The program fee noted above reflects the anticipated fee increase that will go into effect for the Fall 2010 term and will apply to all terms thereafter.

Estimated One-Time Expenses

Expense Type	Price
International Travel	$1000-1200
Visa Fees	Approximately $1000
Recommended Immunizations

*See Additional Cost Information below.

Estimated Monthly Expenses

Expense Type	Price/month
Housing	£350 - 400
Food	£250
Local Transportation	£50
Recreation	£75
Personal Expenses	£50

Compensation

None

Additional Expense Information

Interns must obtain a BUNAC Internship in Britain authorization ($750) and a tier 5 UK visa ( £125). The total processing time for these documents is about eight weeks.

The cost of living in Edinburgh is fairly expensive. Costs listed above reflect a conservative and rather frugal lifestyle. Budget for additional money if you have plans to travel around the UK or Europe, dine out frequently, or take full advantage of the social and entertainment opportunities that Edinburgh has to offer.