Applied Practical Experience Internship
Overview: The American Gaming Association (AGA) invites original proposals from graduate students, Master’s level or above, to perform research via an Applied Practical Experience internship at AGA focused on gambling (the “Internship”). This experience will allow interns to gain practical work experience through a student-led research project.
Process, Learning Objectives and Expected Outcomes: Based on submitted proposals for an original research project within the gaming space, designed to combine academic rigor and industry application, AGA will select graduate students to participate in the Internship. Interns may use primary or secondary data and will be expected to be fluent in critical appraisal, qualitative and quantitative techniques and data analysis. Dr. Carly Johnson, DrPH, MPH, Director of Research will be the primary supervisor of the Interns. Dr. Johnson is happy to work with the Intern’s University or College to satisfy the academic requirements of a practicum or academic credit, but the school is the decision maker on whether credit is granted.
The student will work with AGA to create a cadence and scope that satisfy students’ individual academic requirements per their specific program.
This Internship opportunity is unpaid, but Interns may be reimbursed for up to a maximum of $5,000 USD to cover costs for research databases or similar resources. Current AGA software and datasets may be available, depending on the research proposed. Prior to the start of any internship, Interns will be required to sign an agreement detailing the research expected, the terms of any reimbursement, and ownership of the work product created.
How to apply: Proposals should include:
- Cover Letter
- CV
- Title and Abstract
- Research Hypothesis and Objectives
- Brief Background and Literature Review
- Methodology (includes data source, sample, tools and analytical approach)
- Expected Outcomes and Contribution
- Timeline
- Budget Justification
Proposals shall not exceed 5 pages, excluding relevant refences, cover letter and CV.
Evaluation Criteria: Proposals will be evaluated based on:
- Originality and clarity of research questions, hypothesis and application
- Relevance to gambling studies
- Methodological rigor and feasibility
- Fit with industry research priorities
- Students demonstrated skill set, and/or growth opportunity for students
- Statistical software proficiency is advantageous, but not required
- Demonstrated strong communication skills, initiative, integrity, and experience working both independently and collaboratively
In submitting a proposal, you understand that AGA will determine in its sole discretion which proposals, if any, are accepted. AGA may request additional data, discussion, or presentations in support of the proposal.
Timeline
Spring Cycle
RFP Release December 4, 2025
RFP Response Deadline January 30th, 2026
Offers extended Rolling basis through Feb 13, 2026
Work Period February - August 2026
*AGA can be flexible with timelines with respect to the individual needs of the student and scope of the project. Please include any expected deviations in the RFP response. Above timelines are estimated guidance and are expected to be tailored.
The RFP for the Fall Cycle is expected to be released in Spring 2026 with corresponding dates to follow.
How to Apply: All application materials listed above must be received by the application deadlines to be considered. Please submit all files via email as .PDF (cover letter, CV, RFP response).
Submission and Contact: All proposals and questions should be submitted to Dr. Carly Johnson at cjohnson@americangaming.org, with subject line: “Applied Practical Experience Response- [Your Name]. All application materials shall be the property of AGA and retained by AGA, and therefore shall not be returned to the applicant.
About the AGA
As the national trade group representing the U.S. casino industry, the American Gaming Association (AGA) fosters a policy and business environment where legal, regulated gaming thrives. The AGA’s diverse membership of commercial and tribal casino operators, sports betting and iGaming companies, gaming suppliers, and more lead the $329 billion industry and support 1.8 million jobs across the country.