Office of the General Counsel Copyright [For-Credit] Externship - Summer 2026

The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) at National Public Radio (NPR) is offering a for-credit externship for law students during the Summer of 2026. This program provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in copyright law, fair use analysis, rights management, and audio licensing processes. NPR is a mission-driven multimedia organization that produces award-winning news, information, and music programming in partnership with independent public radio stations across the nation.

Externs will work closely with senior counsel to evaluate copyright issues in audio and occasional video content, conduct research on copyright matters, make fair use determinations, draft and organize permissions agreements, and assist with rights management issues. The externship is remote-permitted, allowing flexibility in work location within the United States, with the option to work from NPR's Washington, D.C. office or a combination of both.

Applicants must be current students in an accredited law degree program, preferably 2L or 3L, with a strong interest in copyright law and a comprehensive understanding of basic copyright principles and fair use. Candidates should have completed a course in copyright law or an equivalent and be well-versed in the principles of fair use. Prior experience with licensing issues is preferred but not required.

This is a for-credit or stipend-eligible externship. During the summer, law clerks are expected to work full-time, 40 hours per week for 12 weeks. Fall and Spring externships can be on a part-time schedule (usually 15-20 hours per week) or full-time schedule. Applicants must be able to comply with their school’s requirements for academic credit.

NPR is committed to building a workplace where collaboration is essential, diverse voices are heard, and inclusion is the key to success. This externship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and mission-driven organization, contributing to the public's access to high-quality journalism and programming.