Internships offer industry exposure, the chance to build a network and the opportunity to collect primary material for your dissertation.
The University of Kent has developed good relations with the Brussels community, in particular with public relations firms and international organisations. This gives our students the opportunity to pursue internships. In addition, our students and alumni comprise a tightly-knit network through which internship opportunities pass frequently.
Internships can be voluntary or paid (non-EU students have the right in Belgium to apply for a work permit allowing them to work 20 hours a week). Our students have held internships at all major EU institutions, NATO, Hill and Knowlton (global PR agency), Ogilvy and Mather (global marketing agency), the US Chamber of Commerce in Brussels, as well as numerous local associations.
European Centre for Public Affairs (ECPA)
We also have a very close working relationship with the European Centre for Public Affairs (ECPA) which gives students access to the public affairs arm of major international companies and organisations. Through the ECPA's Research and Publications Committee, you can undertake research projects for international companies and then use the material for your dissertation.
Key2advance
We also work with key2advance, a career advice and coaching organisation, to guarantee the provision of several internships for our students. These range from one to six months in duration and can be in organisations such as:
Brussels-based United Nations agencies
European Commission communications agencies
public affairs companies
research organisations
think tanks
migration organisations.
Internship for Credit
You can undertake one internship as an integral part of your academic programme. Although the credit does not count towards your degree, you can gain valuable work experience in an institution, international organisation or company in Brussels.
