The Department of History of Art is pleased to continue its Summer Internship Programme, offering undergraduate placements for summer 2026.
First piloted in 2025 with seed funding from the Pharos Foundation, the programme was established to equip students with the skills, experience and confidence needed to enter the workplace and, for many, to pursue careers in the arts and heritage sector. Hosted by leading institutions, placements provide valuable insight into the breadth of professional roles within the field and help students to build networks at an early stage in their careers.
“Working across two departments taught me how to balance competing priorities, adapt to different working styles, and contribute meaningfully in both public-facing and behind-the-scenes roles. Most importantly, it deepened my understanding of the museum’s role as a civic and cultural space, and strengthened my belief in the power of art to connect people and communities.” Jin Cheng, History of Art Tripos Graduate 2025 (Dulwich Picture Gallery Internship, 2025).
Placements for 2026 are due to take place with partners including the Harley Foundation at Welbeck Abbey, Artiq, Holkham Hall and the Wyvern Research Institute.
The Department now seeks to secure and expand these opportunities for undergraduates. Additional funding would allow the Department to grow the number of placements available, deepen partnerships with host institutions, and ensure that students from all backgrounds can access high-quality professional experience in the arts and heritage sector. The Department remains committed to developing this programme as a core part of its student offer and to working with partners and supporters to secure its long-term future.
If you are interested in supporting this initiative, visit https://www.philanthropy.cam.ac.uk/give-to-cambridge/arts-and-humanities/history-of-art or contact Kara Rann, Head of Development, Arts and Humanities: Kara.Rann@admin.cam.ac.uk.