MFA Pathways is the paid internship program of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, open to undergraduate and graduate students, community college students included. Interns train in a specific role in one of the museum’s departments, mentored by its staff.
Cohorts start in fall, spring and summer. This entry covers Spring 2027, which runs January 22 to May 7, 2027.
Benefits & funding
- Hourly pay: US$16.80 for undergraduates, US$19.95 for graduate interns.
- A monthly transit subsidy matching an MBTA LinkPass, currently US$90, taxable.
- Summer interns also get a housing subsidy, currently US$1,500, taxable.
- Fall and spring roles typically take 10–20 hours a week, including a two-hour weekly professional development course.
Eligibility
- Undergraduate or graduate students who have finished their first college year (community college counts) and will be enrolled in a matching degree program during the internship.
- A limited number of roles may be open to recent graduates.
- International students qualify only if eligible and approved for paid CPT/OPT work in the US; the MFA sponsors no visas, and the description must be approved by their visa administrator before they apply.
- One internship per person within two calendar years.
- Each description sets its own hours and further qualifications.
Application process
- 1Choose up to two internships for the term on the MFA hiring portal; each needs its own application.
- 2Submit one document combining a cover letter addressed to the “MFA Pathways Team” and a resume through the portal by December 4, 2026; emailed applications are not accepted.
- 3Send recommendation letters only if the description asks for them.
- 4Host departments interview (in person or online) throughout the application period.
Program timeline
October 27, 2026
Spring 2027 descriptions posted; applications open
Application period ends (rolling review)
December 4, 2026
Spring internships begin
January 22, 2027
Spring internships end
May 7, 2027