The Value of Internships During Master’s Studies

Interning while pursuing a master’s degree lets students supplement their academics and real-world experience. In today’s competitive job market, many master’s degree graduates without work experience need the edge that an internship can provide.

Some still imagine interns running for coffee and doing basic office tasks with minimal or no pay. However, top-tier tech and finance internships offer lucrative compensation and hands-on experience, challenging the typical intern stereotype.

Of course, these high-caliber internships aren’t easy to get. A strong educational background in relevant fields is essential. For tech internships, degrees in computer science, engineering, or related disciplines stand out. While finance internships often favor students with a background in finance, economics, or business. 

Data from Glassdoor outlines the 25 highest-paying internships in the United States. Only firms with over 30 interns who reported their wages on Glassdoor were included. Let’s delve into the details of the top ten highest-paid US-based internships of 2023.

The Top 10 Highest Paid Internships of 2023

1. Stripe

Stripe is a technology company that offers various financial and payment solutions for online businesses. It provides tools for payment processing, subscription billing, and banking infrastructure, enabling businesses of all sizes to accept payments. 

  • Industry: Tech
  • Average Monthly Pay: $9,064

2. Roblox

With its robust developer tools and a vast user base, Roblox lets aspiring game developers bring their visions to life. The platform’s success underscores the future of interactive entertainment, where players and creators shape and redefine the digital landscape together.

  • Industry: Tech
  • Average Monthly Pay: $9,017

3. NVIDIA

NVIDIA, a GPU pioneer, has become instrumental in AI development, driving advancements in autonomous vehicles and healthcare. 

  • Industry: Tech
  • Average Monthly Pay: $8,280

4. Coinbase

Coinbase, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, actively engages with regulatory bodies worldwide. Coinbase is making efforts to bridge traditional finance and the digital asset world.

  • Industry: Tech
  • Average Monthly Pay: $8,206

5. Meta

Meta is crafting the metaverse, a digital and physical realities convergence. This ambitious endeavor promises a revolution in interacting, socializing, and conducting business. In the meantime, this tech giant is responsible for Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.

  • Industry: Tech
  • Average Monthly Pay: $8,160

6. Capital One

While recognized by many for its credit card offerings and banking services, Capital One is also a hub of financial innovation. For instance, they’ve launched digital tools that employ artificial intelligence to offer personalized financial insights to users. 

  • Industry: Finance
  • Average Monthly Pay: $8,050

7. Credit Suisse

Spanning multiple continents, Credit Suisse is at the forefront of delivering bespoke financial solutions to individual and business clients. Their commitment to innovation and customer-centric approaches made them a trusted partner in asset management, private banking, and investment banking. 

  • Industry: Finance
  • Average Monthly Pay: $7,947

8. Bain & Company

Bain & Company is one of the world’s leading management consulting firms. They help clients in strategic decision-making, operations, technology, mergers and acquisitions, and organization, among other areas. Known for its focus on delivering results, Bain & Company’s clients often outperform the market. 

  • Industry: Finance
  • Average Monthly Pay: $7,873

9. Amazon

Within Amazon, interns are exposed to the intricacies of digital transformations, supply chain management, and innovative technological solutions. Interning at Amazon provides a comprehensive learning experience that mirrors the complexity and dynamism of the modern digital economy.

  • Industry: Tech
  • Average Monthly Pay: $7,809

10. EY-Parthenon

EY-Parthenon’s focus on strategic consulting can be a game-changer for business-savvy interns. The business focuses on data-driven decision-making and innovative strategy formulation. At EY-Parthenon, over 9,000 experts from different fields serve clients in 120 countries with sustainable growth strategies. 

  • Industry: Finance
  • Average Monthly Pay: $7,651

Internships are More Than a Paycheck

These well-paid internships offer more than just financial rewards; they are gateways to invaluable industry experience, professional development, and networking opportunities. Choosing the right internship can significantly enhance your master’s program and set the stage for a successful career.

So, as you navigate your academic journey, weigh your internship options carefully. Aim to graduate not only with a high GPA but also with a rich portfolio of real-world experiences that distinguish you in the job market. 

Want a glimpse into master’s programs and internships? Engage with our master student ambassadors to learn from their firsthand experiences.