Opportunities for Students and New Graduates

At SOM, we are cultivating the next generation of design leaders. From summer internship opportunities to the entry-level Year One program, we support professional growth by providing opportunities for students and recent graduates to gain experience at a variety of levels. Learn about all our programs at a glance.


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Year One

Year One is a full-time, entry-level job opportunity—and a pipeline for emerging talent. Each year we select a group of dynamic new graduates through a competitive application process. Alongside day-to-day project responsibilities, members of each Year One cohort will benefit from professional development opportunities and one-to-one mentorship. A significant part of the program is focused on guiding new hires toward achieving their next career milestone: earning their professional license in architecture, engineering, urban planning, or interior design. Consider it as a 360-degree career accelerator program for new grads.

  • Eligibility: Year One is open to recent graduates
  • Program dates: Occurs annually in September 
  • Commitment: Full-time, permanent position 
  • To apply: Applications open in early spring; deadlines vary by office

Summer interns in Chicago © SOM

Summer Internship

The Summer Internship program is open to students who are preparing for careers in architecture, structural and sustainable engineering, urban planning, graphic design, or interior design. Spend the summer learning from experts, building your design and visualization skills, and contributing to world-class design projects. Summer interns participate in a wide range of learning opportunities and events.

  • Eligibility: Undergraduate or graduate students in architecture, engineering, or a related design field who will be returning to school in the fall
  • Program dates: Annually June through August, 10-week program
  • Commitment: Full-time, temporary position, 8 hours per day, Monday through Friday
  • To apply: Applications open November of prior year; deadline in January

Global Winter Shadowship participants in New York Lucas Blair Simpson © SOM

Winter Shadowship

This week-long program offers students an immersive learning experience in our workplace. Participating students will shadow professionals in a range of design disciplines and attend a series of lectures and events, where representatives from multiple cities and departments will share their perspectives.

  • Eligibility: Undergraduate or graduate student in architecture, engineering, or a related design field
  • Program dates: This in-person, one-week program occurs annually in January
  • Commitment: 8 hours per day, Monday through Friday
  • To apply: Applications open in fall, deadline is within a month of applications opening