Note: Applications for Summer 2026 are not being accepted at this time due to a lapse in funding. Please check back later for updates.
Information about the Program
The Virginia Cyber Navigator Internship Program (VA-CNIP) is managed by a coalition of Commonwealth of Virginia Universities partnering with the Virginia Department of Elections to educate students about protecting critical infrastructure, including our election and voting systems. The University of Virginia leads the university network, which includes George Mason University, Norfolk State University, Old Dominion University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Virginia Tech.
VA-CNIP interns provide cybersecurity support services to local election offices in Virginia during a 10-week paid internship. The program was established in the 2021-2022 Academic Year, and the first cohort of VA-CNIP interns supported 14 Virginia localities in Summer 2022. The program includes a 2-day kickoff meeting at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville and 10 weeks of hybrid in-person and remote activities during the summer.
It is expected that students will be able to work remotely, however we do expect students to have several face-to-face meetings with their assigned locality supervisor. Students will also be assigned academic mentors to facilitate their learning experience.
VA-CNIP interns will receive a $9,000 stipend for a 10-week, 30-hour per week engagement with a Virginia local election office, and up to $3,000 for travel-related expenses.
Requirements
Students must have completed IT 425, Election Security, with a grade of A- or better. Students who are enrolled in IT 425 at the time of the application but have not yet completed the course may receive a provisional acceptance decision, contingent on successful completion of IT 425. The course is offered every semester as an elective for the Cyber Security concentration of the Information Technology, BS.
Applicants must be able to legally work for the University, but U.S. citizenship is not required.
Applicants must possess strong written and verbal communication skills, as they will be interacting with local election officials.
How to Apply
Note: Applications for Summer 2026 are not being accepted at this time due to a lapse in funding. Please check back later for updates.
A complete application package includes the following documents:
- Resume: include details about any prior internships.
- Cover Letter with Statement of Interest: explain why you are interested in this internship program.
- Unofficial Mason Transcripts: if transferred from another institution, also include transcripts from that institution.
For questions, please contact Dr. Massimiliano Albanese.