Public Safety, Physical Security & Law Enforcement Internship
The Clemson University Public Safety Internship provides students with hands-on experience in physical security, law enforcement, crime prevention, and campus safety. The internship is designed to support students through direct supervision and guidance from Public Safety professionals while also challenging them to apply what they have learned in the classroom to a professional public safety environment.
Interns will gain practical experience working with physical security systems, camera access and security technology, safety education programs, and physical security assessments of campus facilities. Students may assist with reviewing security concerns, identifying potential safety improvements, and learning how physical security measures are used to support the overall safety of the Clemson University community. Interns will also gain knowledge of departmental procedures and procedure reviews, as well as how policies and procedures guide public safety operations.
Students will participate in data collection and analysis related to crime prevention, physical security, and other public safety initiatives. They may assist with preparing reports, identifying trends, developing safety materials, and participating in safety education programs. The internship will also provide opportunities for public speaking and presentations, allowing students to strengthen their communication skills while interacting with students, employees, and community members.
Interns will have opportunities to participate in the CUPD Ride-Along Program, providing firsthand exposure to patrol operations and the daily responsibilities of law enforcement officers. They will also interact and network with police officers, supervisors, physical security professionals, university departments, and community partners, providing exposure to multiple career paths within public safety and law enforcement.
This internship provides strong resume-building opportunities through the development of skills in leadership, teamwork, professional communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, data analysis, public speaking, security assessment, and community engagement. Students may also have opportunities to attend approved training, meetings, special events, or professional development activities.
The work environment is professional, collaborative, and service-focused. Work may take place in an office environment and throughout the Clemson University campus and may involve walking, standing, outdoor activities, and observation of field operations. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Clemson University policies.
Eligibility requirements: UPIC interns must be enrolled, matriculating, full-time (12+ credit hours for part time interns) Clemson University undergraduate students in good academic standing and non-academic alert status (minimum cumulative Clemson GPA of 2.0) and in good status with the UPIC program. Once selected, in order to participate in the UPIC Program, student interns must enroll in the required INT course ($200 course fee) and complete hiring paperwork with the UPIC office.
Interns cannot begin working until the hiring process is complete.
