PERF Selects Baltimore County Police Department for HBCU Summer Internship Program
ORIGINAL August 15, 2023
The Baltimore County Police Department is proud to be among 29 law enforcement agencies nationwide to participate in the HBCU Summer Internship program sponsored by the Police Executive Research Forum. This innovative initiative provides current college students and recent graduates the opportunity to learn the inner workings of a police department and bring about change through the program’s capstone project. The Baltimore County Police Department hosted Coppin State University student Sam Mensuphu-Bey, who learned about police operations and worked closely with members of the Department’s Employment Section.
Under the 8 to 10-week program, PERF pays each intern a salary for working up to 40 hours each week. The program concludes with each intern completing a capstone project, including a written report and oral presentation on a specific function in their area of assignment. The projects are expected to reflect research, data analysis, and national best practices in support of recommendations for organizational improvement.
INTERNSHIP OBJECTIVES
- Explore the historical and current relationship between Baltimore County police officers and community members.
- Study the complex operational and managerial components of a law enforcement agency.
- Integrate criminal justice theory and practice.
- Complete a data-driven capstone project with the goal of improving a specific functional area in the department.
- Receive compensation to support college expenses or pursue a career in law enforcement.
- Work with a mentor to support the internship experience and provide insight into a law enforcement career.
- Explore potential career paths in law enforcement.