12 Internships for High School Students in Nebraska
Internships are a great way for high school students to explore a field of interest and gain insight into a career they’re considering. These opportunities offer entry-level exposure across various fields, from business to technology. While securing internships can be challenging for high schoolers, many programs are specifically designed to provide flexible experiences. An internship demonstrates your initiative while significantly boosting your college applications and helping you build professional networks.
In this blog, we’ve listed 12 internships open to high schoolers in Nebraska.
1. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies based on program type
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year, vary by cohort
Dates: Multiple 8-12 week cohorts throughout the year, including Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring
Eligibility: Open to all high school students who can work 10–20 hours per week, for 8–12 weeks
Ladder Internships offers opportunities for high schoolers in a range of fields, such as technology, marketing, business development, finance, healthcare, and design. As a Ladder intern, you will be placed with a global startup or nonprofit, based on your subject of interest. You will work on projects, working towards the organization’s larger mission, under the guidance of a startup manager and a Ladder coach.
Interns gain experience in high-level decision-making processes and receive mentorship from founders and team members. The program also includes 1-1 and group training sessions to help students develop their professional skills.
2. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln STEM High School Internship
Location: Nebraska Center for Materials and Nanoscience (NCMN), University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska
Stipend: $12/hour
Application Deadline: March
Dates: The internship runs for 8 weeks during the summer, typically starting in early June and ending in July
Eligibility: Open to high school students entering their junior or senior year
The NCMN High School Internship Program provides students with experience in advanced areas like nanotechnology and materials science. Interns work alongside university faculty and graduate students on active research projects, learning practical lab techniques and gaining insight into scientific investigation. Participants engage with cutting-edge technology and contribute to research that supports ongoing university work. The program helps students build a strong foundation in the scientific process while preparing them for future studies and careers in STEM. With mentorship and collaborative learning at its core, the internship also encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and professional growth.
3. The University of Nebraska Omaha High School Internships
Location: College of Information Science & Technology, University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
Stipend: $1200
Application Deadline: March
Dates: This is an 8-week program from June to July
Eligibility: Open to high school juniors and seniors
The High School Internship Program at the University of Nebraska Omaha’s College of Information Science and Technology offers students experience in fields like computer science, IT innovation, cybersecurity, and other emerging technologies. Interns collaborate with university faculty and industry experts on projects, building technical skills and a deeper understanding of today’s tech landscape. The program highlights mentorship, teamwork, and professional growth, giving students early exposure to college-level learning and career paths in information science and technology.
4. Nebraska Department of Economic Development Grant Internships
Location: Various organizations across Nebraska
Stipend: Varies by employer; many internships are paid
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, depending on the participating business
Dates: Internships are available year-round, with opportunities during the summer and the academic year
Eligibility: Open to high school students and college undergraduates interested in gaining practical work experience in a variety of industries, including technology, healthcare, business, engineering, and more
The Intern Nebraska (InternNE) Program connects high school students with employers across the state, offering paid internships that align with their career interests. Through working in a variety of fields, students apply what they’ve learned in the classroom. The program provides professional mentorship and helps students develop essential workplace skills, preparing them for future careers. InternNE also gives participants the chance to explore different career paths, build connections, and contribute to Nebraska’s growing workforce.
5. AEOP High School Internship
Location: Various U.S. Army Research Labs and university research centers nationwide, including one at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska
Stipend: Paid; the amount depends on the location and the length of your internship.
Application Deadline: Rolling
Dates: Varies by location, typically June–August
Eligibility: Current high school students who are U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents; grade and coursework requirements vary by site
The AEOP High School Internship gives students the chance to work in a university lab or Department of Defense research center, contributing to STEM projects alongside experienced scientists and engineers. With the support of a dedicated mentor, you’ll take part in research in areas like biomedical technology, advanced materials, and other nationally significant fields. Throughout the program, you’ll gain practical lab experience, learn to work with advanced tools, and build a strong understanding of how scientific research is conducted. Interns also benefit from mentorship, skill-building workshops, and peer discussions designed to support their academic and professional growth. The program connects students to a wider network through virtual events and group activities, offering a collaborative and enriching experience.
6. SHTEM: Summer Internships for High Schoolers at Stanford University
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None.
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in January
Dates: June 17 - August 9
Eligibility: Students who will be in grades 11-12 at the time of application, OR full-time community college students (within the first 3 years of community college), are eligible to apply
Offered by one of the world’s top universities, this internship gives high school students experience through research, collaboration, and mentorship from Stanford faculty and industry experts. Interns typically work 30–40 hours a week on projects spanning technology, science, design, and the humanities. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and problem-solving, helping students build both technical skills and core strengths like communication and adaptability. Along with practical experience, participants gain access to Stanford’s academic and professional network, making this a valuable foundation for future college and career goals.
7. The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS): Project Pipeline Baltimore
Location: Virtual and in-person options. The in-person program will be held at the Johns Hopkins Department of Neurology on the East Baltimore campus.
Stipend: In-person participants receive an hourly stipend (amount varies), while virtual interns receive a stipend of $500.
Application Deadline: March 1
Dates: 8 weeks, June - August (in-person); 5 weeks, July - August (virtual)
Eligibility: Juniors and seniors from around the country are eligible to apply to the 5-week, virtual program; Juniors and seniors residing in Baltimore City and the metro area, who have a strong passion and interest in science and medicine, are from underrepresented groups, and have an academically strong background are eligible for the in-person program
This 8-week, fully funded summer program offers high-achieving high school students from underrepresented backgrounds the chance to explore neuroscience through research at Johns Hopkins University. You will work with leading scientists, participate in seminars and discussions, and attend weekly sessions focused on academic and professional development. You will also have opportunities to connect with renowned neuroscientists and present your research at the end of the program. A virtual option is available for those who can’t attend in person. Each year, 5–6 students are selected and receive an hourly stipend plus transportation support.
8. The Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging (AIMI): Summer Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Stipend/Cost: None
Application Deadline: March
Dates: June 18 – 30 (tentative)
Eligibility: High school students aged 14 and older
The Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship offers high school students a chance to dive into the rapidly growing field of AI in medicine. Through virtual lectures, group projects, and mentorship from Stanford researchers, participants explore how artificial intelligence and machine learning are transforming healthcare. The program includes talks from leading experts and opportunities to develop AI solutions in collaborative teams. At the end of the internship, students receive a certificate of completion. With only about 20 students accepted per cohort, this free and competitive program provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing careers at the intersection of technology and health, while also strengthening college applications.
9. Young Nebraska Scientists High School Researchers
Location: University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska
Cost/Stipend: No cost specified; students earn $12/hour, working 20-40 hours per week for up to 8 weeks
Application Deadline: March 31
Dates: June – August
Eligibility: Nebraska residents currently in 10th or 11th grade at the time of application
The Young Nebraska Scientists (YNS) Program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers high school students an 8-week summer research experience in a range of scientific fields, including biology, physics, chemistry, climate science, nanoscience, and materials engineering. Interns work alongside UNL researchers on topics such as quantum materials, animal neurobiology, and climate systems. Throughout the program, you will gain experience with lab tools, strengthen your research and problem-solving skills, and engage with scientific challenges. This opportunity offers a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing STEM in college.
10. Research Apprenticeship Program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC)
Location: University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, Nebraska
Cost: Free (with a possible stipend)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Dates: Summer; part-time projects offered during the school year
Eligibility: High school students aged 16+ and undergraduate students with Native American ancestry
The Research Apprenticeship Program offered by the Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology at UNMC gives Omaha Public High School students the chance to gain experience in biomedical research. Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the program places students in active research labs where they learn core molecular biology techniques and explore areas such as cancer biology, cell biology, and microbiology. The apprenticeship runs for one semester, with the option to continue based on mutual agreement between the student and their mentor. Support with the application process and transportation is available, and students from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to participate. This program offers exposure to biomedical research and helps students build foundational skills for future studies in science and healthcare.
11. Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) Program
Location: Various national forests and public lands across the U.S., especially in Region 2, which includes Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, and most of South Dakota and Wyoming. For registration details, contact Chandra Allred
Cost: Free – participants earn wages based on federal or state minimum wage
Application Deadline: Contact Chandra Allred for the most up-to-date information
Program Dates: Summer program lasting between 1 to 3 months
Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 15–18 (must be at least 15 on the first day and no older than 18 on the final day of the program); A valid Social Security Number is required
The Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) is a paid summer opportunity designed for high school students eager to make a difference in environmental conservation. Participants work on projects in national forests and public lands, contributing to efforts such as building and maintaining trails, controlling invasive species, restoring historic structures, and assisting with wildlife monitoring. This program promotes environmental awareness, collaboration, and career exploration in the conservation field. Students not only gain work experience but also connect with professionals in natural resources and learn about potential career and academic paths in sustainability, ecology, and land management. It’s a great fit for students interested in the environment, outdoor work, or exploring green career options.
12. Inspiring Careers in Mental Health Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: February
Internship Dates: Two-week program in June
Eligibility: Open to rising 10th–12th grade students and recent high school graduates
Offered by the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Texas Southwestern, this two-week online internship gives high school and early college students a broad introduction to careers in mental health. Participants engage in interactive sessions led by professionals from various mental health disciplines. Areas covered include psychotherapy, neuroscience, interventional psychiatry, neuropsychological assessment, and community mental health. Throughout the program, students hear from experts such as psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, social workers, and physician assistants, who share their professional journeys and day-to-day responsibilities. The internship offers a chance to explore how different specialties contribute to mental health care and helps students better understand the career pathways available in this essential field.