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Undergraduate Resources
Our CMIST undergraduates don't just learn, they experience. Our dedicated faculty and staff will guide you through a variety of programs that equip you with the skills and knowledge to succeed. With multiple opportunities to engage in experiential learning, actively conduct research, and practice the professional skills you need in the workplace, you will be well-prepared for the next step in your academic or career trajectory.
Undergraduate Research for Credit
Don't just learn from research, learn to conduct it!
In addition to research done in the regular course of their studies, the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy & Technology (CMIST) offers undergraduate students the opportunity to conduct research under the guidance of our faculty members through CMIST’s Undergraduate Research for Credit course. Students enrolled in this course earn between 3-9 units.
Interested in doing research for credit? Please review the list of research topics with open positions, and contact the CMIST professor directly to discuss the opportunity that interests you. Once you and the faculty member agree to work together, you will complete the research for credit form, and the Deputy Director for Academic Affairs will register you for the course.
Constitutional Role of Presidents
with Prof. Ignacio Arana
Professor Arana is conducting a comparative study on the constitutional role of presidents across all presidential systems. The project aims to define the formal range of presidential authority by analyzing what national constitutions say about the powers, responsibilities, and limitations of presidents. Assistance is welcome to extract and analyze relevant constitutional provisions. Students interested in constitutional law or comparative politics will gain hands-on experience with primary legal texts and enhance their analytical skills.
Identifying Agenda-Setting Power: An Embedding-Based Approach
with Prof. Hannah Bailey
Professor Bailey is seeking a research assistant for a project focused on formalizing a novel computational method using document embeddings to detect agenda setting at scale in political communication texts, specifically in the US House and Senate bill drafting process and Twitter posts by members of the 113th US Congress. This computational methodology project aims to develop a tool for agenda setting analysis applicable across various political contexts. This project is ideal for students interested in social science and computational methods, as this role will involve hands-on experience in creating, testing, and validating a new methodology. Responsibilities may include data preparation and labeling, assisting with testing a machine learning algorithm, drafting a literature review on political agenda setting, and assisting with data analysis and visualization. Python skills are helpful but not essential.
Ambiguity in International Politics
with Prof. Justin Canfil
Ambiguity is an inescapable part of international politics. Recently, we have heard debates about whether the US government should clarify its policy regarding the defense of Taiwan against a possible attack, or leave the policy deliberately ambiguous. How have scholars characterized the causes and effects of ambiguity across different issues, over time? Should states always say what they mean? When does deliberate obfuscation work to a country's advantage? Roles include data collection, data annotation, independent research, and writing summaries and short case studies (open to anyone) or webscraping or basic data analysis (for students with some technical experience).
Politics Congressional District Game + Electoral College Strategy Game – Student Dev Project
with Prof. Jonathan Cervas
Help level up two interactive political games designed to educate and engage!
The first is Name That Congressional District, a fun quiz where players match maps to U.S. congressional districts. The second is an Electoral College strategy game based on the “Colonial Blotto” framework, where players allocate campaign resources across states to win the presidency.
I’m looking for a student developer to help build out both games—adding features like district/state facts, hints, leaderboards, and a searchable database for game content. This is a great opportunity to mix web dev skills (HTML/CSS/JavaScript or similar) with an interest in political strategy and geography. You’ll work independently but with guidance from Dr. Cervas to take both projects from concept to launch.
Check out the beta for the first game
Global Surveillance and Censorship Scores (GSCS) Dataset
with Prof. Nadiya Kostyuk
Surveillance and censorship are among the most powerful tools governments use to control information and influence behavior—both within and beyond their borders. In a world where technology is evolving faster than policy, understanding how these tools are used has never been more urgent. Yet despite their importance, we still know surprisingly little about when, how, and why states employ these tactics. This project breaks new ground by creating the Global Surveillance and Censorship Scores (GSCS) database—an innovative resource that combines historical and contemporary evidence from a wide range of human rights reports. Using cutting-edge data science and deep qualitative research, this project aims to uncover patterns in how states monitor and restrict information, especially as new technologies emerge. The primary task of research assistants will be to read and code sentences from human rights reports, helping extract critical information about how surveillance and censorship appear in practice. This is a great opportunity for students interested in international relations, human rights, data analysis, or political science.
US-China Tech Competition Across AI, Energy, and Security
with Harry Kresja, Director of Studies
This project will examine the evolving technological competition between the United States and the People's Republic of China, with a focus on three critical domains:
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Artificial Intelligence: Analyzing competing AI governance frameworks, model development, research output, and strategic investments in both nations.
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Advanced Energy: Investigating competition in clean energy manufacturing, critical mineral supply chains, and energy storage innovations.
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Dual-Use Technologies: Examining how commercial technologies are being adapted for military purposes and the implications for export controls, investment screening, and capability diffusion to allies and partners.
Interest Groups and Partisan Polarization in State Politics: A Case Study Approach
with Prof. Connor Halloran Phillips
Professor Phillips is seeking research assistance for a project examining partisan polarization in US state governments. Building on findings that interest groups play a role in increasing politicians' extremism, this portion of the project will closely examine politics in several states to uncover the causal mechanisms that explain this pattern. Specifically, the position will require locating and compiling a list of resources providing information on interest group activity and legislative politics in one or more states since the 1960s (including academic research, news accounts, primary sources such as press releases and oral histories, etc.), as well as synthesizing the information contained in those sources into an overall report. Students will gain experience in collecting and analyzing qualitative data in addition to learning about the forces that shaped contemporary politics.
Python Packages for Computational Social Science Methods
with Prof. Hannah Bailey
Professor Bailey is seeking up to three research assistants to develop Python packages for computational methods in social science research. Each assistant will lead one package to accompany an otherwise completed project: (1) an unsupervised method for identifying clusters in large-scale image datasets, (2) a semi-supervised method for quantifying topic-level sentiment trends over time in large text corpora, and (3) an unsupervised method for detecting agenda setting in textual documents over time. Your primary responsibility will be to transform existing code into well-documented, user-friendly Python packages. The final goal is to submit each of these packages, along with comprehensive documentation, to the Journal of Statistical Software. This role is ideal for students interested in computational methods and software development. Responsibilities include code optimization, package structuring, documentation writing, and thorough testing. Applicants should be proficient in Python, capable of working independently, and familiar with best practices in software packaging and documentation. Applicants should provide a coding sample.
AI/Cybersecurity Data Exploration
with Prof. Justin Canfil
The United Nations General Assembly recently voted to work toward binding legal rules to constrain the use of military AI. On the other hand, very little progress has been made on a "cyber treaty" since those discussions first began, in 1998. This project would involve locating the original text for a number of international discussions around cyber conflict and AI or lethal autonomous weapons systems. There are about 500 known discussions to locate. Roles include data collection, data annotation, independent research, and writing summaries and short case studies (open to anyone) or webscraping or basic data analysis (for students with some technical experience).
Presidents of the Americas since Independence
with Prof. Ignacio Arana
Professor Arana is working on expanding his Presidential Database of the Americas to include detailed biographical information about all the American and Latin American national leaders who have governed since independence. Assistance is welcome to extract biographical information about presidents, especially for those who governed during the 1800-1945 period. Assistants will gain experience in complex data collection and learning about political leadership since independence.
The State Cybersecurity Organizations and Policies (SCOP) Database
with Prof. Nadiya Kostyuk
The State Cybersecurity Organizations and Policies (SCOP) database is an ongoing effort aimed at documenting the evolution of state cybersecurity institutions. The beta version of this dataset has been completed, and Prof. Kostyuk is currently seeking research assistants (RAs) to assist in finalizing version 1.0. Responsibilities of RAs include: (1) verifying existing sources and adding new sources through online searches; (2) participating in interviews with government officials involved in cybersecurity; (3) performing (preliminary) data analysis and creating visualizations. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in contributing to a significant project in the field of cybersecurity and gaining valuable research experience.
Risks and Benefits of AI Integration into Political Governance
with Prof. Hannah Bailey
Professor Bailey is seeking up to three research assistants for a collaborative theoretical article exploring the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into political governance. The project will develop a framework for assessing the risks and benefits of AI-driven governance. Specific areas of focus will include accountability in democratic decision-making, challenges of model alignment in political processes, and implications for democratic structures. This research will investigate the role of model alignment in various AI integrations and propose practical approaches for achieving alignment in political contexts. This interdisciplinary project is ideal for students in philosophy, political science, or computer science. Responsibilities will include reviewing relevant literature, contributing to theoretical insights, and drafting initial versions of the article. Applicants should provide a writing sample.
Controversial Technologies in History
with Prof. Justin Canfil
We are living in an era of unprecedented technological change. Pundits and politicians often argue that technology is "out of control," but interestingly, prior generations often felt the same way. This project would involve investigation into historical cases in which the US and other countries debated the security and legal implications of past "emerging" military technologies, like space lasers and weather weapons. At the end we will have a coherent record of what kinds of historical technologies tended to stir the most international and domestic controversy, with lessons for today's emerging challenges. Roles include data collection, data annotation, independent research, and writing summaries and short case studies (open to anyone) or webscraping or basic data analysis (for students with some technical experience).
Additional Student Research
Dietrich College Senior Honors Program
Through the Dietrich College Senior Honors Program students complete an honors thesis and graduate with College Honors. For more information contact Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, Joseph Devine.
Meeting of the Minds
An annual undergraduate research symposium organized by the Undergraduate Research Office each spring. All students engaged in undergraduate research are encouraged to apply.
Research Training for Undergraduates
Through this academic course, qualified first- and second-year students have the opportunity to work directly with a Dietrich faculty member on an ongoing research project. For more information contact Deputy Director Emily Half.
SURA
The Summer Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship (SURA) course awards tuition-free elective credit to first-year and sophomore undergraduates at Carnegie Mellon for existing faculty projects focused on undergraduate research or creative inquiry under the direction of a Carnegie Mellon faculty member.
SURG, SURF, ISURG
Small Undergraduate Research Grants (SURG), Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF), and International Small Undergraduate Research Grants (ISURG) are offered by Carnegie Mellon University's Undergraduate Research Office, these grants and fellowships provide funding for undergraduate students to pursue research in any discipline.
Undergraduate Summer Research (99-409)
This 1-unit tuition-free course allows undergraduate students from all fields to participate in research under the direction of a CMU faculty member. Prior to enrolling, students should have previously participated in summer research via the Summer Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship and/or the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship. For more information visit the Office of the Vice Provost for Education website.
Coursework & Workshops
CMIST goes beyond textbooks to prepare students for the working world. In addition to ongoing advising support, CMIST students have access to mini courses designed to foster professional development and facilitate professional growth. Offered by Haleigh Bartos, associate professor of the practice, these courses cover specific, in-demand skills such as briefing as well as how to successfully navigate everything from the application process and to handling challenges that arise on the job. Additionally, CMIST faculty host workshops that complement students' academic studies, equipping them with the skills they need to succeed.
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Tomorrow’s Professionals
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Mapping the Future
This seniors-only seminar is tailored to graduating CMIST students, helping them identify job opportunities, increase their marketability, and take the next steps toward their professional goals in careers related to international relations, government, politics, and policy.
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Briefing in the Policy World
Briefing is a critical skill as it is the most direct and formal means of communication with the policy and or decision maker. One successful brief can fast-track a career, identify you as a subject-matter-expert, and open dialogue with customers—helping build important relationships in the policy world.
Pi Sigma Alpha
The National Political Science Honor Society
Pi Sigma Alpha is classified by the Association of College Honor Societies (ACHS) as an “upper division, specialized” honor society. Membership in Pi Sigma Alpha is open to students currently taking courses in government, political science, international relations, public administration, or a related interdisciplinary area and enrolled in institutions where chapters are located.
Established in 1919, Pi Sigma Alpha hosts chapters on more than 850 campuses and has inducted more than 300,000 members. Its rolls feature national, state, and local political leaders including one president, three Supreme Court justices, and dozens of members of Congress. Through these 100 years there have been many changes but neither the mission of the organization or the quality of the individuals inducted has changed. Each year those who have achieved academic excellence are inducted and display the same passion for politics and policy. Like those who first joined, today’s student strives to uphold the purpose of Pi Sigma Alpha first described in 1919: “to encourage the scientific and practical study of problems of government, to foster reforms in our governmental machinery, and to aid in the education of the electorate in problems of government.”
Alpha Nu Alpha Chapter
Carnegie Mellon University established the Alpha Nu Alpha chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha during the 2024-2025 academic year. Its charter members will be initiated during spring 2025.
Member Benefits
Pi Sigma Alpha offers many benefits to its members including scholarships for graduate school and internships in Washington, DC, best paper and thesis awards, as well as chapter activity grants. Members are eligible for entrance at the GS-7 level in numerous professional and technical occupations in the Federal service. Pi Sigma Alpha undergraduate student members have access to join the American Political Science Association (APSA) at a discounted rate and access to professional development resources. Lifetime membership also entitles members to wear distinguished graduation regalia at CMU Commencement Ceremonies.
Eligibility
Undergraduates at Carnegie Mellon University must meet the following criteria:
- Complete at least 180 units at CMU;
- Complete at least 30 units at CMU of work in political science, government, or international relations with an average grade of B or higher in those courses;
- Have a declared major or additional major in CMIST;
- Achieve an overall QPA placing them in the top one-third of their whole class. Since CMU does not have class rank, students should have a cumulative QPA of 3.75 (Dean’s List with High Honors) or higher.
Carnegie Mellon University Washington Semester Program
The Carnegie Mellon University Washington Semester Program (CMU/WSP) provides undergraduate students from any major the opportunity to gain real-world experience by spending a full semester in Washington, DC. Students complete an internship while taking classes on public policy, American politics, governance, institutions, and law with CMU faculty.
In addition to developing professional and networking skills while applying what they learn in class to their internship experience, students who complete CMU/WSP are well-positioned to earn the minor in politics and public policy and are eligible to apply for the accelerated version of the Master of Science in Security, Technology, and International Relations (MS STAIR-AMP), a unique opportunity for current CMU students to complete both an undergraduate and graduate degree within five years.
Learn More
Internship Resources
Internships provide real-world experiences that help students explore their career interests, build up their networks, and gain the skills they need to both launch and successfully navigate their careers post graduation. From deciding where to apply to intentionally reflecting on how they have grown over the course of the internship, CMIST staff and faculty support CMIST students at every stage of the process, ensuring successful placements whether a student’s interests and skillset take them to Capitol Hill, a nonprofit organization, or the private sector.
For those seeking internships in Washington, D.C, CMIST offers specialized assistance including the opportunity to meet with the Washington Program Manager to develop a search strategy, set up a mock interview, or to discuss D.C.-specific internship funding opportunities.
All CMIST undergraduate students receive a handpicked collection of internship and entry-level job openings through the weekly “Internship & Entry-Level Position Roundup” newsletter (biweekly in the summer). A collaborative effort between our CMIST offices in Pittsburgh and Washington, DC, this newsletter also features scholarship opportunities and professional development resources.
As students of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), CMIST undergraduate students also gain access to several resources to help them find internships tailored to their interests and network with CMU alumni.
Graduate Resources
Our CMIST graduate students are professionally-oriented with an eye towards strategically shaping their future job prospects. Our masters degrees are professional programs, and we focus on career preparation for the duration of the program, beginning at orientation. With the help of our dedicated faculty and staff, you will have access to a variety of supportive programming motivated towards helping you find success after graduation and beyond.
MITS Capstone
During the Master of Information Technology Strategy (MITS) capstone project, students synthesize and test workable solutions for a particular organization's specific needs over a period of 14 weeks. To support students completing these projects, CMIST offers a workshop that meets once a week during the capstone period and culminates in a final presentation in which they share their recommended solutions. Facilitated by the graduate program manager and open only to those students who have been accepted into the MITS program, this workshop provides students with a laboratory space to apply concepts from their core courses, articulate lessons learned, and strategize the next steps in their career trajectory.
Graduate Workshops
Internship Resources
Internships provide real-world experiences that help students apply their classroom learning to current challenges, build-up their networks, sharpen the in-demand skills that employers need, and gain experience that will help them plan the next steps in their careers post-graduation.
From identifying opportunities aligned with their coursework and career goals to reflecting on their curricular experiences and integrating lessons learned, CMIST staff and faculty support CMIST students throughout the internship process.
In addition to the professional development opportunities listed above, CMIST graduate students also get a curated list of internship openings delivered straight to their inbox. Put together in collaboration between our Pittsburgh and DC CMIST offices, this internship and entry-level position roundup is program-specific and sent on a weekly or biweekly basis. As students of Carnegie Mellon University, CMIST graduate students also gain access to the following:
