14 Internships for College Students in West Virginia
If you’re an undergraduate, internships are a great way to build your resume and gain a competitive edge in the job market. They allow you to develop practical skills, gain hands-on experience in your chosen field, and demonstrate initiative to potential employers. By working in real-world settings, you’ll also learn how to navigate professional environments and apply your academic knowledge to meaningful tasks.
If you’re open to considering 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 significantly improve your employability by giving you relevant experience that sets you apart from other candidates. They help you apply what you’ve learned in class to real-world challenges, strengthening both your technical and interpersonal skills. Through internships, you can explore different career paths and better understand what roles align with your interests and strengths. Many employers view internships as a stepping stone to full-time positions, meaning your performance could lead to future job offers. You’ll also build a professional network, connecting with mentors and colleagues who can guide your career journey. Overall, internships help you gain confidence, clarity, and the skills needed to transition successfully into the workforce.
To make your search easier, we’ve curated a list of the 14 best internships for undergraduates in West Virginia that combine skill-building with real-world exposure. These opportunities are designed to help you grow professionally while exploring potential career paths.
Quick Look
14 internships total spanning state government, public health, legislative work, environmental science, biomedical research, and remote policy fellowships, hosted by organizations including the West Virginia Governor's Office, WVU, NASA's WV Space Grant Consortium, and the West Virginia Legislature
The strongest disclosed stipends are WV-INBRE's Summer Research Internship ($7,000) and the Appalachian Headwaters Internship ($5,000 plus free shared housing)
Several legislative and policy internships are unpaid or low-paid, including the Frasure-Singleton Internship (no stipend, but covers hotel, meals, and transportation) and the Borgen Project and Paragon Policy Fellowship (both unpaid, remote)
Many programs prioritize or require West Virginia residency or enrollment at a West Virginia institution, including the Governor's Internship Program, Project Success at WVSU, and the Judith A. Herndon Fellowship
The earliest deadlines are the Judith A. Herndon Fellowship and Legislative Journalism Internship (both November 1) and the Resilient Communities Research Internship (October 14), so students interested in legislative or research tracks should start early
1. West Virginia Governor’s Internship Program
Location: West Virginia (across state government agencies)
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Summer (9–13 weeks)
Application Deadline: June 15
Eligibility: Students who have completed at least one year of college with a minimum 3.0 GPA; must be enrolled at a West Virginia institution or be a West Virginia resident studying elsewhere; graduate students and May graduates are eligible
In this program, you’ll work within a West Virginia government agency, gaining experience aligned with your academic background and career interests. You are placed in a department based on agency needs and your field of study, where you contribute to ongoing projects under professional supervision. Throughout the internship, you will collaborate with staff and engage in day-to-day operations, helping you understand how state government functions. The program also includes structured professional development sessions designed to strengthen your workplace and career skills. You’ll gain exposure to public sector work while building practical experience through assigned responsibilities. A key aspect of the program is its combination of agency-based work and organized enrichment sessions that support your professional growth.
2. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Remote (work from anywhere globally)
Cost/Stipend: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available); unpaid internship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; not publicly specified
Dates: Multiple cohorts offered in Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November); typically 8 weeks
Application Deadline: Rolling; varies by cohort
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduate students, and gap year students who can commit 10–20 hours per week for 8–12 weeks
The Ladder Internship Program is a selective remote startup internship where you work with a high-growth startup in fields such as technology, AI/ML, health tech, marketing, journalism, or consulting. During the program, you are matched with a startup team and contribute to projects that support the company’s operations or product development. You collaborate with a startup manager and receive mentorship from a Ladder Coach who provides guidance throughout the internship. Your responsibilities may include research, strategy work, content creation, or other project-based tasks, depending on the company you are placed with. At the end of the internship, you present your work and outcomes to the startup team or leadership. The program focuses on professional communication, problem-solving, and exposure to startup work environments.
3. West Virginia DH, DHF & DoHS Summer Internship Program
Location: West Virginia (including Charleston)
Cost/Stipend: Paid; competitive wage; potential free or low-cost housing in Charleston
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Summer
Application Deadline: Priority – February 1; Final – March 1
Eligibility: Students with at least 30 college credit hours and a minimum 2.5 GPA; must be eligible to work in the United States; preference for West Virginia residents and students
In this internship, you’ll work within state departments focused on health, health facilities, and human services, gaining exposure to public sector operations. You will contribute to real-world projects alongside experienced staff, allowing you to understand how government programs support communities. Your role involves participating in day-to-day departmental work, helping you build practical skills relevant to healthcare systems and public service. You’ll collaborate with professionals and gain insight into different functional areas within state agencies. The program offers a structured environment where you can explore potential career paths while gaining hands-on experience. A key aspect of the internship is its focus on applying your academic background to projects that directly relate to health and human services systems.
4. WVSGC NASA & Industry Internship Programs (West Virginia Space Grant Consortium)
Location: NASA Centers and partner organizations (West Virginia and surrounding regions)
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited; based on available sponsorships
Dates: June – August (10 weeks)
Application Deadline: February 27
Eligibility: U.S. citizens with a minimum 3.0 GPA; must be enrolled in a WVSGC academic affiliate institution for funding consideration
In this internship program, you’ll take part in research or operational work connected to NASA’s mission, contributing to projects in science, technology, aeronautics, or related fields. You will work alongside professionals on mentor-guided tasks that align with your academic background, gaining hands-on experience in a structured environment. The opportunities span both technical and non-technical roles, allowing you to explore areas such as engineering, research, administration, or program management. Through the consortium’s industry placements, you may also work with high-tech companies or STEM outreach organizations, broadening your exposure to different work settings. You’ll collaborate with experts and participate in real-world problem-solving, helping you develop practical and analytical skills. A key aspect of the program is its combination of NASA-linked experiences and industry partnerships, offering varied pathways within STEM and related fields.
5. Project Success Paid Internship Program (West Virginia State University)
Location: West Virginia (various internship sites coordinated through WVSU)
Cost/Stipend: $15.00/hour (paid)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Fall, Spring, Summer (varies by term)
Application Deadline: June 30 (Fall); October 15 (Spring); March 31 (Summer)
Eligibility: Continuing degree-seeking students meeting academic progress standards; minimum 2.5 GPA; completion of 24 credit hours with a “C” in English 101; enrollment requirements vary by term
In this internship program, you will engage in work experiences that complement your academic learning while building career-relevant skills. You’ll work at approved internship sites where you take on responsibilities aligned with your field of study, gaining practical exposure beyond the classroom. The program includes mentorship from site supervisors who guide your progress, provide feedback, and support your skill development. You may also participate in professional activities such as meetings and collaborative tasks, helping you understand workplace dynamics. The internship can be completed for academic credit or as a paid experience without credit, depending on your choice. A key aspect of the program is its structured approach, combining academic requirements with supervised, skill-focused work experience.
6. Judith A. Herndon Fellowship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not publicly specified
Location: West Virginia State Capitol and government agencies, Charleston, WV
Cost/Stipend: Paid; $1,300 per month ($5,200 total)
Dates: Spring semester (includes the 60-day legislative session)
Application Deadline: November 1
Eligibility: Full-time undergraduate students attending a public or private institution in West Virginia; must have completed 60 undergraduate credit hours, meet degree program GPA requirements, and have completed Political Science coursework or possess extensive public affairs experience
Through this semester-long fellowship, you will work directly with a state legislator during the full 60-day legislative session and earn up to 12 academic credits. You will assist with research, legislative support, and a variety of staff functions while learning about the legislative process. Your experience may include legislative research, bill drafting, committee operations, and executive-legislative relations. After the legislative session concludes, you will be placed with a government agency for the remainder of the semester. The fellowship combines academic credit with paid professional experience in state government. You will develop a deeper understanding of public policy, legislation, and government operations through hands-on work.
7. Frasure-Singleton Internship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not publicly specified
Location: West Virginia State Capitol, Charleston, WV
Cost/Stipend: Hotel accommodations, meals, and transportation provided; no stipend specified
Dates: One week during the legislative session
Application Deadline: November 1
Eligibility: Full-time sophomores or juniors from any major at a two- or four-year public or private institution of higher education; must be in good academic standing and have completed at least one government course
During this internship, you will spend one week assisting a state senator or delegate during the legislative session. You will observe the legislative process firsthand while earning one upper-division Political Science credit. Your legislator mentor will guide you through daily activities and may ask you to attend committee meetings, observe floor sessions, and assist with research projects or constituent requests. You will gain exposure to how laws are developed and how legislators serve their constituents. The program also covers hotel accommodations, meals, and transportation for the duration of the internship.
8. Legislative Journalism Internship (West Virginia Legislature)
Location: Charleston, West Virginia (State Capitol)
Cost/Stipend: $1,300/month (approx. $5,200 total)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 2 interns
Dates: January – Mid-April
Application Deadline: November 1
Eligibility: Sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate students enrolled in an accredited journalism program in West Virginia; minimum 3.0 GPA
In this internship, you work within the Office of Reference & Information, covering legislative activities and contributing to public communication efforts. You’ll attend and report on floor sessions and committee meetings, producing daily blogs, bill summaries, and other written materials related to legislative proceedings. Your role includes responding to public inquiries and assisting in the dissemination of legislative information through various channels. You will collaborate with staff and be treated as part of the professional team, taking on responsibilities comparable to those of full-time members. The internship also includes a structured orientation that introduces you to legislative processes, research systems, and government operations. A key aspect of the program is its immersive experience in real-time legislative reporting and direct involvement in public information work.
9. Appalachian Headwaters Summer Internship Program
Location: Greenbrier County, West Virginia (Headwaters Wood Thrush Park)
Cost/Stipend: $5,000 stipend; free shared housing provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 9
Eligibility: Students currently enrolled in or recently graduated (within 3 months) from a bachelor’s program in environmental science, ecology, or related fields; must be available for full 10 weeks
In this internship, you engage in full-time field-based work focused on ecological research, habitat restoration, and environmental education. You will participate in activities such as wildlife and plant data collection, habitat improvement projects, and managing ecological data, gaining hands-on experience in field science. You’ll also contribute to community education by supporting nature-based programs and mentoring high school students, adding a teaching and leadership component to your role. Throughout the program, you’ll collaborate with staff, field experts, and fellow interns while developing your own mini research project. The work involves outdoor activity in varied terrain and conditions, requiring adaptability and teamwork. A key aspect of the internship is its combination of scientific fieldwork, community engagement, and independent research within a structured program.
10. Resilient Communities Research Internship (WVU Center for Resilient Communities)
Location: West Virginia University, West Virginia
Cost/Stipend: Paid (hourly; not specified)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Up to 10 interns
Dates: Spring
Application Deadline: October 14
Eligibility: Undergraduate students currently enrolled at West Virginia University; interest in community research, social impact, or regional development
In this internship, you’ll work as part of a research team focused on community-based projects addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. You will contribute to ongoing initiatives in areas such as youth development, food systems, economic development, and climate preparedness. Your role involves supporting research activities, collaborating with faculty, graduate students, and community partners, and reporting on project progress. You’ll participate in training and orientation sessions that introduce you to the program’s research approaches and principles. The experience includes teamwork, analytical work, and opportunities to engage with real-world community issues. A key aspect of the internship is its focus on community-engaged research and collaboration within a transdisciplinary team.
11. WV-INBRE Summer Research Internship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not publicly specified
Location: West Virginia University and Marshall University, WV
Cost/Stipend: $7,000 stipend
Dates: May 26–July 28
Application Deadline: February 5
Eligibility: Full-time students enrolled at WV-INBRE Partner Institutions and students attending West Virginia Community and Technical Colleges who will not graduate by August; students at West Virginia University and Marshall University are not eligible
Through this nine-week internship, you will conduct graduate-level biomedical research under the guidance of a faculty mentor. You will work on a mentored research project while receiving formal research training in a university laboratory setting. In addition to hands-on research, you will participate in workshops, seminars, mentoring activities, and training that utilize advanced research facilities. You can explore areas such as cancer biology, neuroscience, toxicology, cardiovascular disease, biomedical informatics, and cell and molecular biology. At the conclusion of the program, you will prepare an abstract and present your findings at the Summer Research Symposium in Morgantown. The internship is designed to provide practical research experience while helping you develop scientific and professional skills.
12. The Borgen Project Political Affairs Internship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not publicly specified
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Unpaid; college credit may be available
Dates: 12 weeks; new cohorts begin every month
Application Deadline: Rolling applications
Eligibility: Open to applicants in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, and Australia; no prior experience required
Through this remote internship, you will support advocacy efforts to reduce global poverty and influencing public policy. You will spend approximately 12 hours per week conducting outreach, engaging with community members, and supporting campaigns related to poverty-reduction legislation. Your responsibilities may include meeting with government representatives, speaking to groups and organizations, writing advocacy materials, and mobilizing public support for policy initiatives. You will also create and manage a personal fundraising campaign as part of the program. Weekly deadlines, virtual meetings, and progress updates are required throughout the internship. The experience provides exposure to nonprofit advocacy, public policy, and community engagement in a remote work environment.
13. Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not publicly specified
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Unpaid; course credit may be available
Dates: September - May
Application Deadline: July 31
Eligibility: U.S. citizens who are high school graduates enrolled in a degree-seeking program at an accredited college or university; undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students are eligible
Through this virtual internship, you will support projects for U.S. federal agencies while working remotely during the academic year. You can expect to contribute approximately 10 hours per week to projects that support domestic and overseas government offices. Depending on your assignment, you may assist with research, communications, data analysis, program support, or other project-based work. All internship projects are designed to be completed remotely and are supervised by agency mentors. Because the program is virtual, you can participate from anywhere in the United States or abroad. The internship provides an opportunity to gain experience working on federal initiatives while continuing your academic studies.
14. Paragon Policy Fellowship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Fellows work in project teams of 5–7 participants; overall cohort size not publicly specified
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Unpaid
Dates: Summer cohort runs from late May to late August
Application Deadline: Applications typically open approximately two months before the cohort start date
Eligibility: Students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, law, or doctoral programs, or individuals who graduated within the past year; must primarily reside in and be authorized to work in the United States
Through this fellowship, you will work with a small project team to research technology policy issues and develop recommendations for state and local government partners. You will dedicate approximately 8–10 hours per week to conducting research, participating in team meetings, and preparing project deliverables. The projects may focus on topics such as artificial intelligence governance, cybersecurity, broadband access, digital services, and research and development policy. Throughout the program, you will participate in policy bootcamps, workshops, speaker events, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen your policy analysis and communication skills. Working alongside fellow participants and project leaders, you will contribute to deliverables such as literature reviews, demographic analyses, presentations, and policy briefs. The fellowship also provides opportunities to engage with professionals across government, industry, and academia while exploring the field of public interest technology.
Questions Students Often Ask About These Programs
1. A lot of these government and legislative internships are based at the State Capitol in Charleston. Do I need to live nearby, or is housing provided?
It depends on the specific program. The Frasure-Singleton Internship covers hotel accommodations, meals, and transportation for its one-week placement, so you don't need to live locally or arrange your own housing. Other Capitol-based programs, like the Judith A. Herndon Fellowship and Legislative Journalism Internship, don't mention housing support, so it's worth reaching out directly to confirm what's covered before committing to a semester-long placement away from your home campus.
2. Several of these internships are remote, like VSFS, the Borgen Project, and the Paragon Policy Fellowship. How do I know which one is the best fit if I want federal or policy experience specifically?
It depends on the kind of work you want exposure to. VSFS places you directly within a U.S. federal agency, working on projects tied to specific government offices, which is a good fit if you want direct federal experience on your resume. The Borgen Project focuses on advocacy and grassroots campaign work around poverty reduction, involving more public-facing tasks like outreach and fundraising. The Paragon Policy Fellowship is more research-driven, having you work in a small team on technology policy topics like AI governance or cybersecurity. If you're unsure which path fits, VSFS is the most direct route into federal government work specifically.
3. I'm not a West Virginia resident or student. Are any of these internships still open to me?
Yes, several have no residency requirement. Ladder Internships, VSFS, the Borgen Project, and the Paragon Policy Fellowship are all remote and open to students regardless of where they live or attend school. The WV-INBRE Summer Research Internship is the most restrictive option in the other direction, since it's actually closed to students currently attending West Virginia University or Marshall University, so it's worth double-checking eligibility carefully even if you do have a West Virginia connection.