Media and communications is one of the most competitive fields to get an internship in. The number of placements is limited, requirements are high and many students compete for the same positions. But with the right strategy, right timing and right portfolio, it's entirely possible to land a placement that truly gives you experience.
Internships in media and communications cover roles in journalism, PR, marketing, editorial work, content creation, social media and internal communications. It can involve anything from writing news articles at a newsroom to producing social content for a brand.
What types of placements exist?#
| Type | Example workplaces | Common tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Journalism | Newspapers, TV, radio, online newsrooms | News writing, research, interviews |
| PR and communications | Agencies, comms departments | Press releases, client contact, campaigns |
| Content and social media | Companies, agencies, influencer businesses | Text production, planning, analytics |
| Internal communications | Larger companies, organizations, gov agencies | Intranet, newsletters, events |
| Graphic design and video | Media agencies, production companies | Graphics, editing, film production |
Most students gravitate toward agencies or newsrooms, but don't forget that most large companies have their own communications departments that also accept interns.
How to find a media internship#
1. Build a portfolio#
In media, your work samples weigh more than your CV. Collect your best texts, campaigns, videos or design projects. A simple website or PDF is enough.
Don't have published work? Create your own:
- Start a blog about a topic you're passionate about
- Produce content for a non-profit organization
- Write guest posts or participate in publications
- Document projects from your education
2. Apply early#
The media industry plans internships ahead of time. Large newsrooms and agencies have application deadlines, sometimes months in advance. Start applying at least three months before the internship period.
3. Contact workplaces directly#
Many media internships are never officially advertised. Write a personal email to the person responsible for internships – often the editor-in-chief, HR or a communications manager. Include your portfolio and a short text about why that specific workplace interests you.
4. Use your network#
The media industry is network-dependent. Alumni contacts from your program, teachers with industry connections and LinkedIn contacts can all open doors. Don't ask for a placement directly – ask for advice and recommendations.
5. Search via platforms#
Digital internship platforms like Prakto bring together placements from different industries, including media and communications. This makes it easier to find and compare options.
What employers look for#
Writing and communication skills#
The most fundamental requirement. Can you write clearly, correctly and engagingly? Employers often test this through work samples or by reading your portfolio.
Curiosity and initiative#
The media industry rewards curiosity. Students who suggest article ideas, campaign concepts or improvements impress more than those who wait for instructions.
Digital competence#
Basic understanding of:
- Social media platforms and their algorithms
- Analytics tools (Google Analytics, social media statistics)
- CMS systems (WordPress, Episerver)
- Image editing (Canva, Figma, Adobe Creative Suite)
You don't need to be an expert, but you should know the basics.
Adaptability#
The media industry moves fast. Plans change. Deadlines shift forward. The news cycle determines the pace. An intern who can handle speed and uncertainty is highly valued.
Internship at a newsroom vs. agency vs. company#
Newsroom (newspaper, TV, radio)#
- Advantages: Published work, high prestige, network effect
- Challenges: Fast pace, long days, limited spots
- Best for: Students with a journalism focus
Agency (PR, advertising, content)#
- Advantages: Varied clients, creative projects, teamwork
- Challenges: Client-driven deadlines, sometimes repetitive
- Best for: Students who want to work with communications broadly
Company (internal communications, marketing)#
- Advantages: Steadier pace, learning one organization in depth
- Challenges: Less variety, fewer published works
- Best for: Students who want to understand organizational communication
Tips during the internship#
Document everything#
Save every text, campaign, graphic and project you contribute to. It becomes your portfolio – and in media, portfolio is everything.
Ask for assignments#
Supervisors at newsrooms and agencies rarely have time to initiate tasks for you. Suggest articles, campaign ideas or social media posts. Initiative is the currency in the media industry.
Network actively#
Talk to everyone, not just your supervisor. Journalists, designers, project managers and account managers all have contacts and experiences that could become valuable to you.
Ask for feedback on your writing#
In the media industry, feedback on your writing is the most valuable thing you can get. Ask your supervisor or an experienced colleague to read and comment. Every edited text makes you better.
FAQ about media internships#
Do I need to study journalism to do a media internship?#
No. Communications, media studies, digital marketing and similar programs are all relevant. Even self-taught students with a strong portfolio can get placements.
Are media internships paid?#
Rarely. Most media internship placements in Sweden are unpaid, especially at newsrooms. Agencies and companies sometimes pay, especially for longer periods.
How long should a media internship be?#
At least four weeks to have time to get into the work. Eight to twelve weeks is ideal if your education allows it.
Can media internships be done remotely?#
Yes, for many roles in content, social media and communications. Journalism internships at newsrooms are harder to do remotely but not impossible.
Do media internships lead to jobs?#
They can, but the industry is competitive. The most important thing is that you build a portfolio, network and experience that prepares you for the next step.
Conclusion#
Internships in media and communications require more preparation than most other industries. Build your portfolio, apply early, contact workplaces directly and be ready to show initiative from day one. The industry rewards those who do more than what's expected.
Related reading: Internship in Finance and Accounting, IT and Tech Internships and Internships in Construction and Skilled Trades.
