15 Internships for College Students in South Carolina
Internships are an effective way to bridge the gap between your academic learning and real-world application. As a college student, you’ll gain practical experience in your field, develop transferable skills, and build a stronger resume that stands out to employers. Internships also help you understand workplace expectations, explore career paths, and make informed decisions about your future. These experiences often translate into better job prospects and a smoother transition into full-time roles after graduation.
If you’re open to considering remote/online internships, then you can check out paid programs here! And if you’re worried about having less experience, check out our blog here!
Why should I do an internship in college?
Pursuing an internship during college significantly improves your employability by giving you hands-on experience that complements your academic background. You’ll develop key professional skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management, all of which are essential in any workplace. Internships also allow you to apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings, reinforcing your understanding of your field. You’ll explore different career paths and identify which align best with your interests and strengths.
Below are 15 internships for college students in South Carolina that you can explore to gain meaningful experience and strengthen your professional profile.
Quick Look
15 internships total spanning automotive policy, manufacturing, hospitality, nonprofit work, government, and law, hosted by organizations including Scout Motors, BlueCross BlueShield, GE Appliances, and several South Carolina government offices
Two University of South Carolina programs work differently from a standard internship: CIP integrates an internship into your degree with academic support, while SCIP awards a $3,000 stipend after completing an internship you secure on your own
Both Make-A-Wish South Carolina internships are unpaid, though academic credit is encouraged for the Marketing and Communications track
Several manufacturing and technology companies, including KYOCERA AVX, AFL, and GE Appliances, offer paid internships across engineering, supply chain, and business functions at multiple South Carolina locations
Application deadlines vary widely, with Scout Motors closing March 31 and BlueCross BlueShield opening applications in the fall
1. Scout Motors: Intern, Government Affairs (Legal)
Location: Scout Motors, Columbia, SC
Stipend: $18/hour
Acceptance Rate: Competitive
Dates: Mid-May – mid-August (~12 weeks)
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Undergraduate students in political science, law, or related fields
This Government Affairs internship at Scout Motors gives you direct exposure to policy, legal research, and regulatory strategy within the automotive and electric vehicle industry. You will track legislation, analyze regulatory developments, and support internal teams with policy summaries and legal research. The role involves working on real-time issues such as EV policy, consumer protection laws, and market entry regulations. You will also assist in drafting memos, preparing briefing materials, and attending relevant events. This internship provides insight into how corporate strategy intersects with public policy.
2. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Varies (financial aid offered); Unpaid
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Dates: Multiple cohorts in the spring, summer, fall, and winter
Application deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Undergraduates and gap year students; 10-20 hours/week commitment for 8-12 weeks
The Ladder University Internship Program is a selective, fully remote opportunity where you’ll work with startups and nonprofits across a range of industries. You will contribute to real-world projects that address actual organizational needs, gaining meaningful, hands-on experience. Throughout the program, you will collaborate closely with a manager or mentor, developing skills in communication, problem-solving, and project execution. The internship concludes with a final presentation in which you showcase your work and outcomes. You will also gain exposure to global teams and remote work environments.
3. Beach House Hilton Head: Food & Beverage Internship
Location: Hilton Head Island, SC
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: Summer (exact dates not specified)
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: College students interested in hospitality or related fields
The Food & Beverage Internship at Beach House Hilton Head offers you hands-on experience in a fast-paced resort environment. You will rotate across different areas of the F&B division, including restaurants, poolside service, banquet operations, and event catering. This exposure allows you to understand high-volume service operations, customer experience management, and event coordination. You will work in dynamic settings, such as beachfront venues and live-event spaces, gaining practical hospitality skills. The internship helps you develop adaptability, teamwork, and service-oriented communication skills.
4. KYOCERA AVX Internships
Location: Multiple locations across the U.S., including in SC
Stipend: Paid (varies by position)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: Typically summer; Some opportunities are available year-round
Application Deadline: Rolling; Varies by position
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees relevant to the internship field, such as engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, finance, information technology, or business
The KYOCERA AVX Internship Program provides hands-on industry experience within a global manufacturer of advanced electronic components and technology solutions. As an intern, you may work on projects related to engineering design, process improvement, manufacturing operations, quality assurance, supply chain management, data analysis, or business functions, depending on your area of study. You will collaborate with experienced professionals to solve real-world challenges and contribute to ongoing company initiatives. The program emphasizes practical skill development, professional mentorship, and exposure to the operations of a multinational technology company.
5. AFL’s Co-op and Internship Program
Location: Multiple AFL facilities across the U.S., including in SC
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: Spring, summer, and fall terms available
Application Deadline: Varies by term and position
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees relevant to AFL's business areas, including engineering, information technology, supply chain, finance, manufacturing, and related fields
AFL’s Co-op and Internship Program allows you to apply classroom knowledge in a professional environment at a global leader in fiber-optic products, telecommunications, and network solutions. As an intern or co-op student, you will work on meaningful projects that support business operations, engineering development, manufacturing processes, or technology initiatives. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing you to collaborate with experienced professionals while developing technical and professional skills. You will gain exposure to real-world problem-solving, cross-functional teamwork, and industry best practices within a fast-paced technology company.
6. GE Appliances: Student Opportunities Program
Location: Multiple locations, including in SC
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Program Dates: Spring, summer, and fall internships and co-op terms
Application Deadline: Varies by position and term
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, information technology, finance, human resources, marketing, and related fields
GE Appliances' Student Opportunities Program allows you to gain hands-on experience at one of the leading home appliance manufacturers in the United States. As an intern or co-op, you will work on meaningful projects that address real business and engineering challenges while collaborating with experienced professionals. Opportunities are available across a wide range of disciplines, including product engineering, manufacturing, data analytics, supply chain operations, software development, and business functions. The program emphasizes professional growth through mentorship, networking events, leadership development activities, and exposure to company executives.
7. Make-A-Wish South Carolina Internships – Mission Advancement Intern
Location: Make-A-Wish, Greenville, SC, or Charleston, SC
Stipend: Unpaid
Cohort size: Limited (one intern per semester)
Dates: 10-16 weeks per semester
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Juniors/seniors pursuing a bachelor’s degree; More info here
The Mission Advancement Internship at Make-A-Wish South Carolina gives you hands-on experience in nonprofit fundraising and event management. You will support revenue-generating activities, including organizing events, coordinating auctions, and managing donor relationships. The role also includes writing impact stories, conducting prospect research, and assisting with corporate partnerships. You will gain insight into how nonprofit organizations build campaigns and engage communities to support their mission. The internship emphasizes communication, organization, and attention to detail in a purpose-driven environment.
8. SC Works: Student Internship Program
Location: Various locations across South Carolina
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Varies (year-round opportunities)
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Students enrolled in educational programs; Requirements vary by position; College juniors, seniors, recent graduates from a four-year college or university, or graduate students
The SC Works Student Internship Program connects you with employers across South Carolina to gain practical work experience aligned with your field of study. You will explore opportunities in industries such as business, healthcare, IT, and skilled trades, depending on availability. The program focuses on workforce development, helping you build job-ready skills through structured, real-world experience. You may also receive career guidance, training resources, and support from SC Works centers throughout the process. Internships vary in format and duration, allowing flexibility based on your academic schedule.
9. Make-A-Wish South Carolina Internships – Marketing & Communications Internship
Location: Make-A-Wish, Charleston, SC, or Greenville, SC
Stipend: Unpaid (academic credit encouraged)
Cohort size: Limited
Dates: 10-16 weeks per semester
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: College students in marketing, communications, journalism, or related fields; More info here
The Marketing & Communications Internship at Make-A-Wish South Carolina provides hands-on experience in nonprofit storytelling and outreach. You will create content for social media, newsletters, and websites while supporting public relations and media efforts. The role also involves collaborating on campaigns, organizing digital assets, and engaging with wish families to share impactful stories. You will build practical skills in content creation, branding, and audience engagement using tools like Canva. The internship emphasizes creativity, organization, and mission-driven communication.
10. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina: Summer Internship Program
Location: Various BlueCross locations across South Carolina
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate: Competitive
Dates: Mid-May – early August (~12 weeks)
Application deadline: Applications open in the fall
Eligibility: College students enrolled in a four-year university
The BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Internship Program offers you a structured, full-time summer experience across departments aligned with your academic background. You will work on real projects while gaining exposure to areas such as healthcare operations, business, IT, and finance. The program includes professional development sessions on topics like personal branding, financial planning, and workplace culture. You will also participate in networking events, volunteer activities, and presentations to senior leadership. Additional perks such as mentorship, access to facilities, and career guidance enhance the experience.
11. U.S. Bankruptcy Court (District of South Carolina): Student Internship
Location: United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate: Competitive
Dates: Year-long (full-time summer; part-time during academic year)
Application deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Rising college juniors or seniors enrolled full-time; U.S. work authorization required
The U.S. Bankruptcy Court Internship offers you in-depth exposure to the federal judicial system through a structured, year-long program. You will observe court proceedings, assist with legal and administrative tasks, and conduct research to support judicial staff. The role also involves organizing case materials, analyzing data, and contributing to court operations and outreach events. You will work closely with judges, legal professionals, and administrative teams, gaining insight into how federal courts function. This internship emphasizes analytical thinking, organization, and professionalism in a legal setting.
12. South Carolina Democratic Party (SCDP): Internship Program
Location: South Carolina (primarily Columbia, with some remote opportunities)
Stipend: Not specified (may vary by role/term)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Fall, spring, and summer sessions
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: College students interested in politics, communications, or organizing
The South Carolina Democratic Party Internship offers you hands-on experience in political campaigns, communications, and grassroots organizing. You may work on voter outreach, event coordination, digital communications, and research projects that support party initiatives. The internship provides exposure to campaign strategy, messaging, and community engagement at the state level. You will collaborate with staff and volunteers, gaining insight into how political organizations operate and mobilize support. The role also helps you build skills in communication, teamwork, and public engagement.
13. South Carolina Attorney General’s Office: Internship Program
Location: South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, Columbia, SC
Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance rate: Competitive
Dates: Multiple sessions in a year (part-time; 12-15 hours/week)
Application deadline: May 15 – 31 (Fall)
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in accredited institutions
The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office Internship provides you with direct exposure to legal and government operations. You will assist with research and administrative tasks and may have the opportunity to observe court proceedings, depositions, or trials. The role helps you understand how legal cases are handled at the state level, including exposure to prosecution and public legal services. You will work in a professional environment that emphasizes confidentiality, accuracy, and attention to detail.
14. University of South Carolina: Carolina Internship Program (CIP)
Location: Various placements across South Carolina
Cost/Stipend: Free; Stipend varies by employer
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Fall, spring, and summer sessions
Application deadline: Add/drop date of the semester
Eligibility: USC students with a GPA ≥ 2.5 and at least 15 completed credits
The Carolina Internship Program (CIP) is a structured academic program that allows you to integrate internships into your degree while maintaining full-time student status. You will receive professional development support, including guided reflection and career planning, to help you maximize your internship experience. The program emphasizes building awareness of your skills, strengths, and career goals through structured learning components. You will also gain recognition toward Graduation with Leadership Distinction, adding value to your academic profile. CIP ensures your internship experience is not just practical but also academically meaningful.
15. University of South Carolina: South Carolina Internship Program (SCIP)
Location: South Carolina (in-person internships statewide)
Stipend: $3,000 stipend (awarded post-internship)
Cohort size: Limited
Dates: Summer (aligned with internship duration)
Application deadline: Varies (based on funding availability)
Eligibility: University of South Carolina students; Preference for undergraduates
The South Carolina Internship Program (SCIP) provides financial support to help you pursue internships in high-demand industries across the state. While you secure your own internship, the program offers a $3,000 stipend upon successful completion, reducing financial barriers to participation. Eligible roles typically fall within sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, IT, finance, and engineering. In addition to funding, you’ll receive pre-internship preparation, mid-term check-ins, and a final evaluation to support your professional development. This structure ensures you gain both practical experience and guided career readiness.
Questions Students Often Ask About These Programs
1. What's the difference between USC's Carolina Internship Program (CIP) and South Carolina Internship Program (SCIP)?
CIP is designed to integrate an internship directly into your degree, offering structured academic support, professional development, and recognition toward Graduation with Leadership Distinction, but it doesn't provide funding itself. SCIP works differently, since you secure your own internship and the program provides a $3,000 stipend after you complete it, specifically to help reduce financial barriers for students pursuing internships in high-demand fields. If you're a USC student, it's worth looking into whether you can combine both, using CIP for academic structure and SCIP for financial support, depending on your specific internship and eligibility.
2. Both Make-A-Wish South Carolina internships are unpaid. Are they still worth pursuing compared to paid options on this list?
Yes, especially if you're interested in nonprofit work, marketing, or event-based fundraising specifically, since these roles give you direct, hands-on experience in donor relations, storytelling, and campaign work that's harder to access in a for-profit setting. If income is a priority for your semester, it's worth checking whether your school offers academic credit for unpaid internships, which the Marketing and Communications role specifically encourages, or pairing one of these with a paid part-time role elsewhere.
3. How do the government and legal internships (Attorney General's Office, Bankruptcy Court, SCDP) compare to each other?
Each gives you a different angle on legal and political work. The South Carolina Attorney General's Office focuses on state-level legal and prosecutorial work, with some exposure to courtroom proceedings. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court internship is more specialized, giving you exposure specifically to the federal judicial system and how bankruptcy cases are processed. The South Carolina Democratic Party internship is the most political of the three, centered on campaigns, organizing, and communications rather than legal work itself. If you're interested in law specifically, the Attorney General's Office or Bankruptcy Court are the stronger fits; if you're more drawn to political strategy and grassroots organizing, SCDP offers a different kind of experience.