All Things Considered & National Desk Internship - Fall 2026

NPR•Washington, DC

12h•Onsite

About The Position

This internship consists of two parts. Each part will be hosted by a different team. The first part, All Things Considered (October-January), is NPR’s flagship afternoon news program where interns are actively involved in the production of the daily program. They pitch stories, conduct research, pre-interview guests, mix stories, help with production of podcasts and book studios at NPR and remote locations. They work alongside program staff and assist with the live program. The second part, National Desk (January-April), is ideal for those who aspire to be a reporter in public media. National Desk interns are given real-world, hands-on responsibilities from day one. Working alongside top professionals in the field, interns conduct meaningful work, such as researching, pitching, and reporting their own stories, and may also have the opportunity to accompany staff reporters and producers on assignments. This internship is an NPR editorial role covered under the terms of the NPR Ethics Handbook, and all editorial staff are bound by this guidance.

Requirements

A keen interest in journalism
Specific interest in public media
Some journalism experience (such as an internship at a local public radio station or a job at a college radio station)
Resume
Cover Letter
Writing Sample
Must be a current student in an accredited degree program or a recent graduate of no more than 12 months from the month of the start of the internship.

Responsibilities

Conducts research for daily stories and long-term projects
Books guests and arranges studios for news and feature interviews
Logs recordings of interviews and events
Obtains archival tape and assists with basic audio
Attends daily editorial meeting and pitches story ideas
Helps with digital production
Assisting NPR staff reporters, editors, producers, hosts and freelancers in the creation of news programming
Learning NPR News’ radio journalism ethical standards and practices
Developing radio reporting and producing skills that will prepare the intern for careers at NPR member stations and at NPR itself
Conduct research for editors and reporters
Build clipboards, log tape and write digital posts

Benefits

403(b) retirement plan
Transit Commuter benefits
Membership with Signal Financial Federal Credit Union
Free access to on-site Wellness Center
Free fitness center membership
Secure bike facilities
Garage parking
Onsite cafeteria
Employee Assistance Program with up to six face-to-face counseling sessions per issue
Global Guardian worldwide assistance
Business Travel Accident coverage
Holiday pay for 10 observed holidays plus one floating holiday per year
Sick leave accrual
Professional development opportunities
Flexible work hours
Telecommuting options