15 Health Science Internships for Undergraduates
Internships are one of the most effective ways for college students to translate classroom learning into work experience. By working in professional environments, you gain exposure to industry-relevant skills, understand how organizations operate, and begin building relationships with mentors. Internships allow you to demonstrate competence, making them a strong addition to any resume. Online internships are even more accessible, allowing you to work with respected organizations, gain experience, and build professional credibility without relocation or travel.
Why should I do a health science internship in college?
For students interested in health science, internships provide insight into how medicine and healthcare function. Health science internships typically offer exposure to research, clinical care, and public health. You will contribute to data analysis, patient-facing work, health education, or research coordination in hospitals, labs, universities, or health organizations. Employers value candidates who understand clinical environments, research protocols, and healthcare ethics, and who have demonstrated the ability to work in professional settings. Because healthcare is interdisciplinary, these internships are a good way to explore your interests before you commit to a field.
In curating this list, we focused on 15 health science internships for undergraduates that offer meaningful professional experience and opportunities to network with faculty, clinicians, and researchers.
1. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Cost varies depending on the program type; financial aid is available / No stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10–25% acceptance; 70–100 students per cohort
Dates: 8-week cohorts (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; (Spring: January, Summer: May, Fall: September, Winter: November)
Eligibility: Undergraduate and gap year students who can commit 10–20 hours per week for 8–12 weeks
The Ladder University Internship Program offers selective virtual internships where undergraduates are matched with startups or NGOs across industries such as architecture-adjacent design, sustainability, tech, and social impact. You work on real-world projects that contribute directly to organizational goals, producing tangible outcomes for your resume or portfolio. Each participant is supervised by an on-site manager and paired with a dedicated Ladder Coach for weekly one-on-one mentorship. The program emphasizes professional accountability, independent problem-solving, and project ownership. With its remote format, Ladder provides accessible, flexible, and affordable exposure to professional environments. This program is especially valuable for students seeking structured guidance alongside practical experience. Apply now!
2. National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Summer Internship Program (SIP)
Location: NIH campuses nationwide (primarily Bethesda, MD)
Stipend: Between $3,010 – $3,310 depending on tenure as an undergraduate
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; roughly 1,200 interns across all campuses
Dates: 8–10 weeks during summer (Late May/June – August)
Application Deadline: February 18
Eligibility: Undergraduate students enrolled at least half-time in an accredited college or university; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; 18+ by September 30
The NIH Summer Internship Program is one of the most prestigious biomedical research opportunities for undergraduates. You work in NIH laboratories under the supervision of Principal Investigators on projects spanning biomedical, behavioral, and clinical research. Participants develop technical research skills while learning how large-scale research institutions operate. The program also offers professional development seminars and career panels. You present your work during NIH Summer Poster Day, gaining valuable scientific communication experience. SIP is ideal for students planning to pursue MD, PhD, or MD-PhD pathways.
3. Amgen Scholars Program (U.S.)
Location: Multiple elite U.S. universities
Stipend: Paid; varies as per location
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Extremely selective; roughly 10–15 scholars per site
Dates: 8–10 weeks in the Summer; dates vary as per location
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Undergraduate sophomores, juniors, or non-graduating seniors enrolled in accredited four-year colleges or universities in the United States, Puerto Rico, or other U.S. territories who will return in the Fall to continue studies; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; 3.2 GPA or above
The Amgen Scholars Program, one of the most selective undergraduate research fellowships in the world, is a research experience hosted at top universities such as Harvard, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins. You conduct full-time, independent laboratory research under the mentorship of faculty members. The program emphasizes scientific rigor, critical thinking, and advanced research skills. Scholars also attend a national symposium, where they network with peers and leading scientists. Participation signals strong academic preparation and commitment to research. The program is particularly valuable for students pursuing graduate-level biomedical science careers.
4. Stanford Summer Research Program – Amgen Scholars (SSRP-Amgen)
Location: Stanford University, CA
Stipend: $4,800 + flex card
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; up to 38 students
Dates: June 20 – August 15
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Current undergraduate sophomores, juniors, or non-graduating seniors enrolled in accredited four-year colleges or universities; must have at least 3 semesters (or 4 quarters) of completed college coursework by the application deadline
SSRP-Amgen at Stanford offers an immersive research experience within a world-renowned academic environment. You will work with faculty mentors on independent biomedical research projects. The program emphasizes experimental design, data analysis, and scientific presentation. Beyond the bench, you also attend weekly professional development workshops and faculty lectures that demystify the PhD application process, while also participating in a "journal club" to practice critically analyzing scientific literature. Exposure to Stanford’s research ecosystem provides you with exceptional networking opportunities. This program is ideal for students seeking rigorous preparation for research-intensive graduate programs.
5. Yale BioMed Amgen Scholars Program
Location: Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
Stipend: $5,000 + $725 food allowance + $750 travel reimbursement
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; ~25 students
Dates: May 26 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 2
Eligibility: Undergraduate sophomores, juniors, or non-graduating seniors enrolled in accredited four-year colleges or universities in the United States, Puerto Rico, or other U.S. territories who will return in the Fall to continue studies; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; 3.2 GPA or above
The Yale BioMed Amgen Scholars Program is a highly competitive, 10-week summer research intensive designed for students intending to pursue a PhD or MD-PhD in the biomedical sciences. You gain hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and scientific writing. The program includes weekly seminars, physician-scientist shadowing, and mentorship from Yale faculty. Scholars build strong professional relationships with peers and researchers. The rigorous structure prepares students for advanced academic training. It is especially valuable for those considering PhD or MD-PhD programs.
6. Fred Hutch Cancer Center – Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP)
Location: Seattle, WA
Stipend: $7,304
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Extremely competitive; ~25–30 students
Dates: June 22 – August 21
Application Deadline: January 16
Eligibility: Undergraduate students entering the summer before their final year, semester, or quarter of study
Fred Hutch SURP offers undergraduates hands-on research experience in cancer biology, public health, and clinical research. The program focuses on cancer research, including areas such as vaccines and infectious diseases, human biology, and basic sciences. Interns are paired with a faculty mentor to complete an independent project, which culminates in a competitive Poster Session at the end of August. You also receive training on graduate and medical school preparation. Mentorship is a central component, with close guidance from faculty researchers. This program is well-suited for students pursuing research-focused health science careers.
7. Massachusetts General Hospital – Summer Research Trainee Program (SRTP)
Location: Boston, MA
Stipend: $5,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; approximately 25–30 students
Dates: June 1 – July 24
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Undergraduate students underrepresented in medicine
MGH’s Summer Research Trainee Program provides hospital-based research experience at a leading academic medical center. You divide your time between high-level laboratory research and structured career preparation. You will be paired with a faculty preceptor to work on an original research project in fields like genomics, health policy, or clinical trials. The program emphasizes mentorship, academic rigor, and scientific communication. Participants attend seminars focused on research methods and career development. Students gain insight into translational medicine within a clinical setting. SRTP is ideal for those preparing for medical or graduate school.
8. Vanderbilt University – Undergraduate Clinical Research Internship Program (UCRIP)
Location: Nashville, TN
Stipend: $1,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; approximately 15–20 students
Dates: June – August, first week
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Undergraduates enrolled in a four-year accredited college or university; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; minimum 3.5 GPA
Vanderbilt’s UCRIP combines clinical observation with mentored research at an academic medical center. You will observe patient care alongside residents and attending physicians in a clinical setting (e.g., the Emergency Department, Oncology, or Pediatrics). You will be paired with a mentor to complete a research project. Because this is a clinical program, your research often involves clinical data analysis, retrospective chart reviews, or patient-oriented outcomes research. Weekly seminars focus on the business of being a doctor, including medical school admissions workshops and lectures on health equity.
9. Mayo Clinic – Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)
Location: Rochester, Minnesota, Jacksonville, Florida, Scottsdale, Arizona
Stipend: $6,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; approximately 180 students total
Dates: May 26 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 3
Eligibility: Current undergraduates currently enrolled in an accredited U.S. college or university; completed their sophomore year; minimum 3.0 GPA (4.0 scale)
In the Mayo Clinic SURF program, you will dive into diverse biomedical topics ranging from cancer biology and immunology to neuroscience. You’ll spend 10 weeks working alongside scientists to conduct experiments, analyze complex data, and attend seminars on patient care. This program immerses you in an active hospital environment, showing you firsthand how research translates to real-world medical treatment. You will also participate in weekly journal clubs and present your own findings at a final poster symposium. By the end, you will have developed advanced laboratory techniques, sharpened your critical thinking, and learned to professionally communicate your scientific discoveries.
10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – John R. Lewis Undergraduate Public Health Scholars (Lewis Scholars) Program
Location: CDC sites nationwide
Stipend: Paid, amount not specified; varies by site
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; ~150 students
Dates: 8 weeks in the summer
Application Deadline: Late January
Eligibility: Current undergrads (rising juniors/seniors) or recent grads (within 12 months); minimum 2.5 – 3.0 GPA (varies by site); U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or DACA recipient
In the John R. Lewis Scholars Program, you will immerse yourself in public health with a specific mission to advance health equity and eliminate disparities. You will spend your summer at a top university, working on projects that range from analyzing epidemiological data to designing community interventions. Your routine includes visiting local health organizations, attending leadership workshops, and receiving guidance from experienced mentors. Uniquely, this program treats public health as a tool for social justice, empowering you to solve systemic issues in underserved communities directly. The program culminates in a formal presentation of your research to experts.
11. American Public Health Association (APHA) – Public Health Policy Internship
Location: Washington, DC (hybrid options may be available)
Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; 1–3 interns
Dates: Fall: September 1 – December 15; Spring: January 15 – May 1; Summer: June 1 – August 15
Application Deadline: Fall: June 5, Spring: October 6, Summer: February 6
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students working toward a bachelor's, graduate, or postgraduate degree; must be able to work in the U.S. during the internship
The American Public Health Association (APHA) Public Health Policy Internship is a professional development opportunity focused on federal advocacy and the integration of science into public policy. In this program, you support issue briefs, policy statements, and educational materials on major public health topics. The role provides exposure to the intersection of science and legislation, enabling students to gain strong writing and analytical skills. Networking with public health professionals is a key benefit, and this internship is well-suited for students interested in health policy and advocacy careers.
12. HRSA / HHS Public Health Student Intern Program (PHSIP)
Location: Varies across the U.S. (some remote placements available)
Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Non-selective; cohort size varies by semester
Dates: Semester-long (10–12 weeks in the Summer, Fall, and Spring)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in a public health or related program; U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
The HRSA/HHS Public Health Student Intern Program places students within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to gain firsthand experience in public health administration and policy. You may assist with program evaluation, data analysis, systems integration, or health policy research, depending on placement. The program emphasizes mentorship and exposure to federal public health operations, enabling you to gain insight into how national health initiatives are designed and implemented. While most roles are unpaid, the professional credibility and learning outcomes make this a strong resume-building opportunity. It is apt for students considering careers in public service or health policy.
13. Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS)
Location: Fully virtual (Students may participate from anywhere in the U.S. or overseas)
Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Acceptance varies by agency; approximately 2,000+ interns across all federal agencies and projects
Dates: Academic year (September – May)
Application Deadline: Late July
Eligibility: U.S. citizens enrolled in an accredited undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree program
The Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) is a competitive academic-year internship program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. You work approximately 10 hours per week on real-world projects supporting domestic and international federal offices. Because the program is entirely remote, you can gain federal internship experience without relocation or travel costs. Projects span fields such as public health, policy analysis, data research, global development, and science communication. Each intern is supervised by two mentors and contributes to unclassified, mission-driven work. VSFS is particularly valuable for students seeking federal experience, professional networking, and a nationally recognized credential on their résumé.
14. Cancer Prevention Summer Research Program (CPRTP) – UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
Location: Houston, TX (students must reside in Texas for the duration of the program)
Stipend: ~$17/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; over 300 applicants annually
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: January 14
Eligibility: Undergraduate, graduate, and health professional students
The Cancer Prevention Summer Research Program (CPRTP) is a competitive, paid summer internship focused on cancer prevention and population sciences research at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center. You will work on research projects under faculty from the Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, gaining exposure to emerging science and research methods. In addition to hands-on research, you engage in a structured curriculum that includes seminars on cancer prevention, career development, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes professional growth through networking, mentorship, and collaborative learning with peers and faculty. At the conclusion of the program, you present your findings through a 90-second elevator speech and a scientific poster.
15. Johns Hopkins University – Diversity Summer Internship Program (DSIP)
Location: Baltimore, MD
Stipend: $3,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Extremely selective; approximately 15–20 students
Dates: May 31 – July 27
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and have completed at least two years of undergraduate study
The Diversity Summer Internship Program (DSIP) is a rigorous, full-time summer research program designed to introduce undergraduates to graduate-level biomedical and public health research. You will work on mentored research projects within Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health departments and research centers. In addition to hands-on research, you participate in weekly professional development seminars focused on leadership, collaboration, and communication skills. The program culminates in a formal oral presentation and poster session. DSIP is especially valuable for students from diverse backgrounds who are considering careers in public health, medicine, or biomedical research.
Image Source - Yale University logo