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Interns

Overview

Learn how things are done in practice!

Still completing your studies? Looking for more than just book learning? Done well in your last semester or just completed your bachelor’s degree with distinction? Want to experience something new and see the big picture from a different perspective?

You’re enthusiastic about your studies and already have a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent? Then perhaps you’re also interested in getting some practical experience in an area directly related to today’s sociopolitical issues. If so, a number of exciting responsibilities await you as an intern at the Bertelsmann Stiftung.

An internship at the Bertelsmann Stiftung offers you the chance to become acquainted with and contribute to our project work. In addition, you have the opportunity to acquire basic project-management skills while supporting our projects as they are being implemented. During your time with us, we want to hear your ideas – so you can add momentum to the work we do!

You should have:

  • a bachelor's degree or the equivalent
  • at least three months' time to spend as an intern with us
  • internship or service-leaning experience (preferred)
  • interest in our work and the relevant Bertelsmann Stiftung project

Jobs

FAQ

Informations

What are the requirements for an internship at the Bertelsmann Stiftung?

You should have at least a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent. Usually, we also give internships to students in the final years of their university studies. It’s an advantage if you have already completed one or more internships elsewhere.

How long do internships at the Bertelsmann Stiftung last?

Internships last at least three months, although it would be better if you were able to spend four to six months with us.

How far in advance should I apply for an internship?

You can begin your internship at any time, but ideally you should submit your application three months before the date you would like to start.

Where would I be working during my internship?

Internships take place at the Bertelsmann Stiftung’s main office in Gütersloh.

Which information should I include if I submit an unsolicited application to do an internship?

Please include the exact dates that you would be available and the areas that you would like to do your internship in (e.g. the projects or programs). That will allow us to ascertain where an internship is possible. Please also indicate whether you are applying for a mandatory internship or whether you wish to complete a voluntary internship.

Is it possible to write a university thesis in cooperation with the Bertelsmann Stiftung?

Possibilities for doing a thesis are limited and are only feasible in conjunction with an internship.

How many interns work at the Bertelsmann Stiftung each year?

Approximately 50-60 qualified candidates complete a professional internship at the Bertelsmann Stiftung each year.

Are internships paid?

Yes. The amount of pay an intern receives will be individually determined taking into account the legal requirements.

As an international applicant, what do I need to know?

You are very welcome to join us as an international intern, especially given Bertelsmann Stiftung’s increasingly international focus. We therefore accept applications in English.

Please make sure that you meet the following requirements:

  • Good command of German (the foundation’s working language is German)
  • Excellent command of English
  • Intercultural skills
  • Some practical experience

Please also remember that you need to apply well in advance (4–6 months), since you may need a visa and a work permit. If you are an enrolled student, we will help you apply for your work permit.

Contact

Dual vocational training and internships are topics I’m really passionate about. I did my training at Bertelsmann, which is why I’m very pleased to be the contact person for internships at the Bertelsmann Stiftung.

At the Bertelsmann Stiftung, we find it very important both to provide interns with professional support and to involve them directly in the topics and relevant teams from day one. That allows them to become acquainted with the foundation’s work and to actively contribute to it. In addition, interns can gain professional experience, build networks and expand their skill set. All the while, they also know they’re doing something to benefit society.

We look forward to getting to know you! We’ve prepared an FAQ especially for interns. If you have any questions it doesn’t answer, please don’t hesitate to contact me!