The Inclusion, Education and Community Engagement team helps create programs and experiences that strengthen the student-athlete experience and advance the NCAA’s commitment to belonging, leadership development and community impact. Working alongside NCAA staff, member schools and external partners, interns contribute to educational programming, strategic initiatives and community engagement efforts that support student-athletes on and off the field. Whether your interests are in inclusion, leadership development or community engagement, you’ll gain hands on experience while making a meaningful impact across collegiate athletics.
Is this Internship Right for You?
These internships are ideal for recent graduates interested in belonging and well-being, leadership development, student-athlete support, educational programming or community engagement. Successful candidates are organized, collaborative and proactive, with strong communication skills and a desire to create meaningful experiences for others. Individuals with experience in campus leadership, athletics, education, event planning, community service or program development are encouraged to apply.
College graduates with a bachelor’s or graduate degree from a four-year NCAA member institution who are pursuing a career in college sports administration. No prior athletics department experience or sports-specific degree required.
A full-time, in-person internship at the NCAA national office in Indianapolis, with 45 positions across 12 departments. Applicants may select up to three departments of interest in a single application.
A yearlong program running June 14, 2027 through May 26, 2028. Relocation to Indianapolis is required.
Interns are paid hourly at a rate that equates to $33,000 annualized and receive full benefits. Applicants should plan for their own relocation costs to Indianapolis.
Eligibility
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a four-year NCAA member institution by the internship start date.
- No prior experience as an NCAA national office intern or employee.
- Legally authorized to work in the United States (international students may apply through Optional Practical Training for F-1 students).
- No age restriction or sports-specific degree required.
- Prior athletics department experience and former student-athlete status are not required.
- Not a current or former NCAA national office intern or employee.
Why Inclusion, Education and Community Engagement?
The Inclusion, Education and Community Engagement department brings together professionals dedicated to creating opportunities that help student-athletes, coaches, administrators and member schools succeed. Through educational programming, leadership development, belonging initiatives and community engagement, interns gain exposure to a wide variety of experiences while developing the skills needed for careers in collegiate athletics, higher education and nonprofit leadership.
What You’ll Experience
Take ownership of meaningful projects that support educational programming, leadership development, belonging initiatives and community engagement efforts across the NCAA.
Work alongside experienced NCAA professionals to assist with program planning, stakeholder engagement, event execution and strategic initiatives that serve student-athletes, member schools and communities.
Strengthen your leadership, communication, project management and collaboration skills through mentorship, cross functional teamwork and hands on experience.
Build relationships with NCAA staff, member schools, student-athletes, conferences, community organizations and external partners while gaining valuable insight into collegiate athletics administration.
If you’re ready to gain hands-on experience, build your professional network, and make an impact across college athletics, review the requirements and submit your application.