15 Internships for College Students in Oregon
If you are a college student, participating in an internship can be a valuable way to gain practical experience and strengthen your professional profile. Through internships, you can apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, develop industry-relevant skills, and gain a clearer understanding of workplace expectations. These experiences can also help you build a stronger resume and prepare for future job opportunities. When exploring internships for college students in Oregon, you will find a wide range of opportunities across industries such as technology, healthcare, public service, and environmental science.
If you’re looking for remote/online internships, then you can check out paid programs here! And if you’re worried about having less experience, check out our blog here!
Why should I do an internship in college?
Internships provide a structured way for you to connect academic learning with practical experience. Instead of only studying theoretical concepts, you will engage in real tasks, collaborate with professionals, and develop a clearer understanding of how your field operates in practice. They also allow you to build a professional network through interactions with mentors, supervisors, and peers, so you can form connections that may support your future career. With many options available, identifying the most suitable internships for college students in Oregon can be challenging.To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of 15 internships for college students in Oregon that provide meaningful learning opportunities and professional development.
Key takeaways
This list covers 15 internships for Oregon college students spanning healthcare research, technology, law enforcement forensics, conservation, and global manufacturing, with standout hosts including Intel, Nike, Oregon State Police, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
Pay here skews strong overall, with research fellowships offering stipends as high as $6,000 and $5,000 at two major Oregon universities, while a virtual startup-based option is one of the few unpaid entries on the list.
The forensic science internship stands out for giving rare hands-on exposure to real casework inside a state police lab, while the zoo internship offers a physically active, outdoor alternative to the more typical lab-based research options here.
Most of these require being based in or relocating to Oregon for the internship period, particularly the university and state-run programs, while a handful of virtual options are open regardless of location.
The earliest deadline lands in late January for one of the biomedical research fellowships, with a few more following in mid-February and early March, so it's worth starting applications well before winter break ends.
1. Oregon Health & Science University’s School of Dentistry: Research Internship
Location: Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Portland, OR
Stipend: $15/hour or current minimum wage
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: June 22 – August 14
Application Deadline: Not specified; Opens in November
Eligibility: High school, undergraduate, or recent graduate students (16+) with an interest in oral health, dentistry, or related fields
This internship focuses on introducing you to research in dental, oral, and craniofacial health through a structured, mentored experience. During the program, you will work closely with an experienced researcher on a dedicated project, allowing you to build both technical knowledge and research skills. The internship places a strong emphasis on guided learning, with additional activities designed to support your long-term interest in science and healthcare careers. Over the course of the program, you will spend most of your time developing and refining your research work. At the end of the internship, you will present your findings at a formal event.
2. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies (financial aid offered); Unpaid
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: Multiple 8-week cohorts in a year
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: College students from around the world
The Ladder University Internship Program allows you to work directly with a startup on real-world projects that add tangible value to the company and address existing needs. Rather than following a fixed curriculum, your experience will depend on the company you’re matched with, which could involve anything from product development to growth strategy or market research, depending on your interests and the field you wish to pursue. You will meet weekly with a supervisor from the startup, who will guide your work and provide feedback as you progress. The experience is designed to mirror a remote professional role, with an emphasis on practical output and communication.
3. Intel Software AI Intern
Location: Intel, Hillsboro, OR
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: Not specified
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics, physics, or a related field; Applicants should have experience with C/C++, Linux software development, floating-point arithmetic, accuracy validation of floating-point algorithms, and software library design and architecture; Experience with GPU programming, graphics technologies, or CUDA is preferred
Intel offers AI internship opportunities for college students interested in machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, GPU programming, and AI software development. Depending on the role, you'll contribute to the design, development, optimization, and deployment of AI software solutions while collaborating with experienced engineers on real-world projects. Technical responsibilities may include developing algorithms, optimizing model performance, working with Linux-based software environments, integrating hardware and software, and improving AI frameworks for scalable applications. Throughout the internship, you'll strengthen your programming and problem-solving skills while gaining hands-on industry experience in a collaborative environment.
4. Nike Internships
Location: Philip H. Knight Campus (PHK), Beaverton, OR
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: Summer internships; Exact dates depend on the region
Application Deadline: Typically in January
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in a college or university program
Nike’s internship program allows you to work on projects that directly contribute to the company’s operations across a wide range of teams. Depending on your role, you may be involved in areas such as product creation, marketing, supply chain, engineering, or strategy. From the start, you will be integrated into a team and given responsibilities that align with real business needs, rather than observational tasks. The program also includes structured elements such as workshops, speaker sessions, and networking opportunities with professionals across the organization. Throughout the internship, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams, gaining insight into how large-scale global operations are managed. In addition to project work, you will have access to professional development resources and campus events that support both skill-building and community engagement.
5. Oregon State Police: Forensic Science Internship
Location: Statewide opportunities available
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: June 1 – 30
Application Deadline: April 11
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in college or university pursuing a degree in a natural science or related field, having completed at least 2 years of coursework; Must be authorized to work in the U.S. and remain enrolled through the duration of the internship
This internship provides you with hands-on exposure to forensic science within a professional law enforcement setting. During the program, you will work in one of the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division laboratories, where you will assist with technical and scientific tasks related to evidence analysis. Depending on your placement, your work may involve areas such as DNA analysis, toxicology, drug chemistry, crime scene investigation, or fingerprint analysis. You will be assigned a mentor who will guide your work and help you understand laboratory procedures and forensic methodologies. The internship emphasizes practical experience, allowing you to observe and contribute to real casework processes while developing analytical and critical thinking skills. You will also gain insight into how forensic science supports the broader criminal justice system.
6. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) Internships
Location: Various lab locations, including Portland, OR
Stipend: $17.13 – $27.02/hour
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: Summer with potential extension into the academic year
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Undergraduate students enrolled in at least 6 credit hours with a minimum 2.5 GPA
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) offers internship opportunities across a wide range of scientific, engineering, technology, and business disciplines. As an intern, you'll work alongside researchers, engineers, and professional staff on projects that address challenges in areas such as energy, environmental science, national security, data science, computing, biomedical research, and business operations. Depending on the program, you'll gain hands-on research or professional experience while receiving mentorship from experts in your field and developing technical, analytical, and workplace skills. Many internships also include professional development activities, networking opportunities, laboratory tours, and career workshops, helping you build valuable connections while exploring careers in research, government, and industry.
7. The Knight Cancer Institute: Biomedical & Bioinformatics Research Internship and Training Experience (B-BRITE)
Location: Knight Cancer Institute laboratories, Portland, OR
Stipend: $4,500
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: June 22 – August 14
Application Deadline: January 22
Eligibility: Undergraduate students (18+) who have completed at least two years of study with coursework in science or related fields
This internship offers you an immersive introduction to biomedical and cancer research through hands-on lab work at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute. During the program, you will work closely with a research mentor on a guided project, gaining experience with experimental design, data analysis, and laboratory techniques. The internship also includes seminars and training sessions that introduce you to different career pathways in biomedical and data sciences. In addition to research, you will develop your communication skills by preparing and presenting a scientific poster at the end of the program. The experience is structured as a full-time commitment, combining independent research with collaborative learning and networking opportunities. By the end of it, you will have a clearer understanding of what a career in cancer research entails.
8. American Psychological Association Internships
Location: Virtual
Stipend: Paid or academic credit internships
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: Year-round internships
Application Deadline: Varies by internship
Eligibility: Must be authorized to work in the U.S. and enrolled at least part-time in an academic institution; Not open to applicants from specific states
The American Psychological Association Internships allow you to explore how psychological knowledge is applied in professional and organizational settings beyond clinical practice. Depending on the role you apply for, you may work in areas such as research, policy, communications, publishing, or education. Throughout the program, you will report to a supervisor who will guide your day-to-day work while helping you connect theory to real-world applications. The experience may also include workshops, group projects, and discussions that focus on current issues in psychology and professional development. You will gain insight into how psychology informs public policy, education, and outreach efforts.
9. OSU College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences Summer Research Internships for Undergraduates
Location: Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
Stipend: $600/week
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 15 – August 14
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Undergraduate students (not graduating seniors) at a two- or four-year college; More info here
This internship offers you the opportunity to conduct hands-on research in earth, ocean, and atmospheric sciences at Oregon State University. During the program, you will be paired with a faculty mentor and work on an individual research project aligned with your academic interests. Your work may involve field-based research, laboratory analysis, or computational modeling, depending on your project area. In addition to research, you will participate in seminars, field trips, and group activities that expose you to a broader scientific community. A unique aspect of the program is the opportunity to gain field experience, including research cruises along the Oregon coast. By the end of the internship, you will present your findings at a research symposium, building both technical and communication skills.
10. Daimler Truck North America Internships
Location: Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), Portland, OR
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: Varies by role
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Current students enrolled at an accredited college or university, pursuing a relevant degree; Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Daimler Truck North America offers internships across a wide range of business areas, including engineering, manufacturing, information technology, supply chain, finance, human resources, facilities, and operations. As an intern, you'll work on meaningful projects that contribute to the company's day-to-day operations while gaining practical experience alongside industry professionals. In addition to hands-on work, the program includes mentorship, professional development workshops, networking opportunities with company leaders, and social events designed to help you build valuable professional connections. Depending on the role, you may also receive housing assistance and access to employee resource groups, wellness initiatives, and learning platforms such as LinkedIn Learning. By the end of the internship, you'll have strengthened both your technical expertise and workplace skills while gaining insight into one of the world's leading commercial vehicle manufacturers.
11. Oregon Zoo Animal Care Internships
Location: Oregon Zoo, Portland, OR
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: Seasonal: fall, winter, summer, and spring terms
Application Deadline: August 1 (Fall), November 1 (Winter), February 1 (Spring), April 1 (Summer)
Eligibility: Students capable of physically demanding tasks and working in outdoor conditions, with an interest in animal care or related fields
This internship gives you direct exposure to animal care and zoo operations through hands-on work with the zoo’s keeper staff. During the program, you will assist with daily husbandry tasks such as cleaning enclosures, preparing food, and maintaining animal habitats, while also contributing to data collection and analysis. A key component of the internship is completing a final report focused on animal behavior, nutrition, welfare, or husbandry practices. The work is physically demanding and takes place in a variety of environmental conditions, offering a realistic understanding of the field. In addition to routine responsibilities, you will gain insight into how zoological institutions manage animal care and conservation efforts. The Oregon Zoo internships are also available in other areas such as education programs and horticulture, allowing you to explore different aspects of zoo operations depending on your interests.
12. Panasonic Internships
Location: Panasonic Offices around the world, including Oregon
Stipend: Depends on the position
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: May – August
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students currently enrolled at an accredited four-year college or university, pursuing a related degree, available to work on-site 5 days/week; Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Panasonic offers internship opportunities across multiple business divisions, allowing you to gain practical experience in engineering, software development, manufacturing, business operations, finance, marketing, supply chain management, and other professional fields. The company's 12-week internship program combines hands-on work in your chosen field with career planning workshops, department spotlights, resume-building sessions, mock interviews, and networking events to help you develop professionally. Depending on the role, you'll work on real-world projects, collaborate with experienced professionals, and contribute to ongoing product development or business initiatives. Technical internships may involve software engineering, automation, embedded systems, AI applications, DevOps, or quality assurance, while business-focused roles provide exposure to analytics, operations, and project management.
13. University of Oregon: Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship
Location: University of Oregon, Eugene, OR
Stipend: $5,000
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: 8-10 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: March 12
Eligibility: Full-time UO undergraduate students with a minimum 3.0 GPA; More info here
UO’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship provides you with the opportunity to pursue a full-time research or creative project under the guidance of a faculty mentor. You may choose to design your own independent project or contribute to a faculty-led research initiative, depending on your interests and academic goals. Over the course of the summer, you will dedicate 30-40 hours per week to your work, allowing for a focused and immersive research experience. In addition to project work, you will participate in professional development sessions covering topics such as resume building, research pathways, and academic opportunities. The program also emphasizes mentorship, giving you consistent access to faculty guidance and support throughout your project. At the conclusion of the fellowship, you will present your work at the Undergraduate Research Symposium, gaining experience in communicating your findings to a broader audience.
14. Portland State University: Undergraduate Research & Mentoring Program
Location: Portland State University, Portland, OR
Stipend: $6,000
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: 10 weeks starting June 15
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Freshman, sophomore, or junior in the Maseeh College at PSU demonstrating strong academic performance and interest in research; Must commit 40 hours/week for 10 weeks
This program offers you the opportunity to conduct full-time research alongside a faculty mentor within the Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science. Over the course of the internship, you will work on an independent research project while receiving guidance through regular meetings and structured check-ins. The experience is designed to be both rigorous and collaborative, combining individual research with opportunities to engage in a broader peer community. You will also take part in shared learning and networking activities organized through MSURE, which help build connections with other student researchers. Throughout the program, you will document your progress and refine your work, culminating in a final presentation at a PSU community forum. The internship thus emphasizes both technical development and the ability to communicate research effectively.
15. The Wildlife Society Wildlife Policy and Communications Internship
Location: Virtual
Stipend: $2,000/month
Acceptance rate: Highly selective
Dates: September – February
Application Deadline: July 15
Eligibility: Applicants with an interest in conservation policy and journalism, with strong writing and communication skills; Preference is given to students or recent graduates in wildlife management, wildlife biology, natural resources, environmental policy, communications, or related fields
The Wildlife Society's Wildlife Policy and Communications Internship offers hands-on experience at the intersection of wildlife science, conservation, and public policy. As an intern, you'll research wildlife policy issues, prepare background materials for testimony and policy comments, create resources such as fact sheets and infographics, and write articles for the organization's website and magazine. You'll also gain exposure to nonprofit advocacy and science communication while supporting government affairs initiatives and attending The Wildlife Society's annual conference. This fully remote, six-month internship provides valuable experience in wildlife conservation, environmental policy, science communication, or nonprofit organizations.
Common questions about these internships
1. Do I need prior research or lab experience to apply to these internships?
It depends on the program. Several of the research fellowships expect at least some relevant coursework or lab exposure, while a number of the corporate and government internships are more open to students building those skills for the first time. Check each program's eligibility details closely before applying.
2. Some of these internships pay very differently. How should I weigh a paid internship against an unpaid one?
Pay is worth factoring in, but it shouldn't be the only consideration. A strong unpaid experience with real mentorship and project ownership can still be valuable for your resume and network. If finances are a concern, prioritize the paid options on this list first, since several offer competitive stipends.
3. Do I need to already live in Oregon to apply to these internships?
Most of the on-site programs expect you to be based in or near Oregon for the internship period, especially the university and state-run options. A few virtual programs on this list are open no matter where you live, so those are worth a look if relocating isn't an option.