15 STEM Internships for Undergraduates in Florida

Internships allow you to learn beyond textbooks and experience how your field functions in the professional world. When you intern, you translate academic knowledge into practical work, build confidence, expand your network, and better understand the direction you want your career to take. Employers prefer candidates who have already applied their skills in a professional environment, so an internship strengthens your profile and significantly boosts your employment odds. If you are majoring in a STEM discipline, completing an internship can give you a measurable advantage in the job market. A STEM internship gives you exposure to research environments, laboratories, engineering teams, technology development, or environmental fieldwork. 

Why should I do a STEM internship in college?

Doing a STEM internship during college is one of the smartest moves you can make because they give you practical experience. When graduation rolls around, having that practice on your resume shows hiring managers that you know how to contribute in a workplace. Plus, it gives you an opportunity to figure out what kind of daily work you enjoy before committing to a career path. You’ll also build a network of mentors and peers who can help you land that crucial first full-time job.

To help you move forward with confidence, we have curated a list of 15 of the best STEM internships for undergraduates in Florida. These opportunities stand out for their mentorship, practical learning, and meaningful professional exposure across STEM fields.

1. Modernizing Medicine Architect Software Engineering Internship

Location: Boca Raton, FL (Hybrid)
Stipend: Paid, amount not disclosed
Dates: Typically, 10–12 weeks during the Summer (June – August)
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: College students currently pursuing a degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field; should have proficiency in Java and a foundational understanding of system design concepts; familiarity with Spring Boot and common design patterns, and the ability to work on a hybrid basis from the Boca Raton office

This program offers hands-on experience in real-world software architecture within the healthcare technology sector, helping you strengthen your understanding of system design in a practical, applied setting. During the internship, you will collaborate with engineering teams to document architectural frameworks, support the development and maintenance of a Tech Radar, research emerging technologies, and take part in technical and architectural design discussions. You will also gain insight into AI-driven architecture and other advancing technologies shaping the industry. Beyond technical exposure, the internship supports your professional growth through structured development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning resources, helping you build skills that contribute to long-term career advancement.

2. Ladder University Internship Program

Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Cost varies depending on the program type; full need-based financial aid is available / No stipend
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort: Spring (February), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
Eligibility: Undergraduates and gap year students who can work for 5-10 hours/week for 8-12 weeks!  

College students in Florida who are interested in pursuing a virtual internship and gaining work experience with global startups and nonprofits can consider Ladder's University Internship, a selective virtual internship program. The startups span a range of industries, including finance, health tech, engineering, media and journalism, environmental science, AI, nonprofits, and more. In the 8-week program, you will work closely with a manager and a dedicated Ladder Coach, and develop technical and professional skills across multiple sessions with the host company. As part of the internship, you will work on a real-world project that is of genuine need to the startup you are working with, and present your work at the end of the internship. Apply now!

3. L3Harris Technologies Environment, Health & Safety Internship

Location: Melbourne, FL
Stipend: Paid hourly, rate not specified
Dates: May 1–31
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: College students pursuing a Bachelor's degree in a related environmental/science/ chemical/engineering field; anticipated graduation in Spring/Summer; should have a GPA of 3.0 or greater; advanced proficiency in MS Office products

L3Harris Technologies offers Florida-based internships for undergraduates interested in environmental science and engineering. In the Environment, Health & Safety role, you will contribute to the oversight and enhancement of the company’s environmental and safety systems while gaining applied industry experience. Your responsibilities may include carrying out inspections, interpreting safety and environmental data, proposing corrective measures, and supporting initiatives aimed at minimizing environmental impact. This experience allows you to develop a stronger understanding of regulatory practices while sharpening your critical thinking and coordination skills.

4. NASA Moon Tycoon Lunar Simulation Software Development Internship

Location: Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Merritt Island, FL
Stipend: Paid, amount/rate not specified
Dates: Summer, fall, and spring cohorts
Application Deadline: Summer: February 27; Fall: May 22; Spring: September 12
Eligibility: Undergraduate sophomores to seniors; should be at least 16 years of age; must be a U.S. citizen; should have some experience developing software using the Unity game engine; U.S. citizens

NASA offers the Moon Tycoon Lunar Simulation Software Development Internship using Unity, a full-time opportunity for college students in Florida. This internship allows you to contribute to the development of the Moon Tycoon lunar simulation platform, focused on modeling and visualizing lunar operations with photo-realistic detail. You will collaborate with a professional development team and receive training on the specialized tools and utilities used in the project. Your work may also include building and refining project menus, enhancing PC and VR user interfaces, implementing rover-driving and manual control systems, resolving software bugs, and supporting other core development tasks.

5. NASA Risk Modeling Tool Internship

Location: Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Merritt Island, FL
Stipend: Paid, amount/rate not specified
Dates: Early June to mid-August
Application Deadline: February 27
Eligibility: Undergraduate juniors and seniors; should be at least 16 years of age; must be a U.S. citizen; minimum 3.0 GPA; know how to program in Python 3 and build simple, well-documented tools that run from a command line

If you are looking for a programming-centered internship in Florida, the NASA Risk Modeling Tool internship is a strong option to consider. Offered by NASA, this full-time, hands-on opportunity allows you to contribute to the development of a Python-based risk modeling tool, ideally across two consecutive terms. In this role, you will help design and implement risk modeling methods while working with component identifiers, system structures, and related technical elements. You will also improve the tool’s functionality by developing a user-friendly interface, gaining practical experience in software development, systems analysis, and computational problem-solving.

6. UF Health – Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows (SURF)

Location: Jupiter, Florida, USA
Stipend: $7,000
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 2
Eligibility: Undergraduates enrolled in a 2-year or 4-year undergraduate degree program (at the time of application), U.S. citizens or permanent residents; minimum 3.3 GPA

This program offers undergraduate students a full-time summer research experience in biomedical science. Over 10 weeks, you will work with leading scientists in research laboratories, gaining experience in areas such as neuroscience, molecular biology, immunology, and computational biology. The program provides a stipend, structured mentorship, research seminars, and professional development workshops designed to strengthen your laboratory, analytical, and scientific communication skills. By the end of the program, you will present your research findings, giving you valuable experience in sharing complex ideas clearly and confidently while exploring future opportunities in graduate study and research careers.

7. Florida Space Internship Program – Florida Space Grant Consortium

Location: Jupiter, Florida, USA
Stipend: $6,000
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Undergraduates enrolled in a 2-year or 4-year undergraduate degree program (at the time of application), U.S. citizens or permanent residents

The program offers undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to spend their summer engaged in hands-on research across areas such as space science, aeronautics, and engineering. Hosted at the Space Life Sciences Laboratory near Kennedy Space Center, the internship places you in a professional research environment where you work alongside experienced mentors on real aerospace-related projects. Over 10 weeks, you will build technical skills, strengthen your research and analytical abilities, and gain insight into how scientific and engineering ideas are applied in the aerospace field. You also connect with professionals in Florida’s growing aerospace sector.

8. Internship Program – ANGARI Foundation

Location: West Palm Beach, Florida, USA
Stipend: $1,500
Dates: Spring: January  – May; Summer: May – August; Fall: August – December
Application Deadline: Spring: November 1; Summer: March 1; Fall: June 1
Eligibility: Current university students who are 18+ at the time of application; valid authorization to work in the U.S.

The ANGARI Foundation Internship Program allows undergraduates to gain hands-on experience in marine science, education, conservation, and science communication by working directly with a nonprofit that bridges scientific research and public outreach. As an intern, you will collaborate with staff on meaningful projects on supporting youth STEM education, citizen science, digital media content, research vessel operations, and community engagement, developing skills in both science and communication. Throughout the internship, you will build practical professional experience, expand your network, and deepen your understanding of how science is communicated to and used by diverse audiences in real-world settings.

9. Internship Experience Program – Florida Polytechnic University

Location: Various campus locations across Florida 
Stipend: Most positions are paid
Dates: Summer: Early May – Mid-August; Fall: Mid-August – Mid-December; Spring: Early January – Early May
Application Deadline: Industry Deadlines: Typically 3–6 months before the start date; University Registration: Must be registered by the Add/Drop deadline of the respective term
Eligibility: Must be a registered Florida Poly student pursuing a degree; successful completion of core prerequisite courses (varies by major); minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0

The Internship Experience at Florida Polytechnic University is designed to ensure that students graduate with meaningful industry exposure alongside their academic training. Through this program, you will secure a professional internship that aligns with your major and career interests, allowing you to apply technical knowledge to workplace challenges. Whether in engineering, technology, data science, or business innovation, you will gain hands-on experience, strengthen problem-solving and communication skills, and understand how your field operates beyond the classroom. With structured academic credit and guidance from Career Services, the experience helps you build a competitive resume, expand your professional network, and step into future opportunities with confidence and practical insight.

10. UF Innovate – Tech Licensing Internship Program

Location: Gainesville, Florida, USA
Stipend: Paid hourly, rate not disclosed
Dates: Spring: January – May; Summer (Summer C): May – August; Fall: August – December
Application Deadline: Spring: late November; Summer: late March/early April; Fall: late June/early July
Eligibility: Upper-level undergraduate students enrolled at UF; authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship; Windows and MS Office proficiency

The Tech Licensing Internship Program at UF Innovate gives you real-world experience in technology commercialization, intellectual property, and innovation operations within a university research environment. In this internship, you will work with professionals on tasks such as marketing emerging technologies, assisting with patent research, organizing licensing documentation, supporting startup development, and crafting communications for outreach efforts. The program helps you build practical business and legal skills that are valuable in technology transfer, entrepreneurship, and innovation management, and it connects you with innovators, industry partners, and entrepreneurial networks. The flexible part-time schedule makes it possible to gain hands-on experience that supports your academic and career goals.

11. Research Experiences for Undergraduates Program – Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing 

Location: Tampa, Florida, USA
Stipend: $7,000
Dates: Fall: August 25 – December 13; Spring: January 12 – May 8; Summer: May 18 – July 31
Application Deadline: Summer: March 1; Fall: August 25; Spring: January 12
Eligibility: Undergraduate students majoring in STEM fields, especially computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, and related majors; register for CIS 4915 (for semester) and participate in the end-of-term BCREUS Symposium; U.S. citizens or permanent residents

This program allows undergraduate students to conduct hands-on, faculty-mentored research in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, hardware security, data science, and computing systems. You will work with professors and graduate students on research projects, develop technical and problem-solving skills, and take part in professional development activities that strengthen your understanding of research methods and computing careers. By the end of the program, you will present your work, expand your academic network, and gain experience that prepares you for graduate study or careers in computing and technology fields.

12. Undergraduate Internship Program – Center for Coastal Solutions

Location: Coastal sites throughout Florida
Stipend: Summer: $8,000; Fall/Spring: $3,000
Dates: Summer: Typically mid-May to early August (12 weeks); Fall: Typically late August to December (Semester-long); Spring: Typically January to early May (Semester-long)
Application Deadline: Summer: Early March; Fall: Typically mid-July; Spring: Typically late October or early November
Eligibility: Undergraduate students enrolled at the University of Florida

The Undergraduate Internship Program at the Center for Coastal Solutions at the University of Florida allows you to gain hands-on research experience in coastal and environmental science while working alongside faculty, graduate students, and experienced researchers. In this program, you will assist with meaningful projects that involve fieldwork at coastal ecosystems, data collection and analysis, laboratory techniques, and environmental monitoring. You will develop practical skills in ecology, hydrology, instrumentation, and scientific communication, grow your understanding of coastal systems, and build a foundation for future academic pursuits or careers in environmental science and engineering.

13. Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens Internships

Location: Jacksonville, FL
Cost/Stipend: $60 intern fee / No stipend
Dates: Spring: January – April; Summer: May – August; Fall: September – December
Application Deadline: Summer: February 15; Fall: June 15; Spring: November 15
Eligibility: Students enrolled in an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program in Biology, Zoology, Psychology, Education, Horticulture, or related fields; 18+

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens offers a diverse range of internships for college students, allowing you to apply for up to three positions per term and be selected for one. Through this program, you will gain immersive, hands-on experience in your chosen field of interest while contributing to the zoo’s daily operations and conservation efforts. Internship opportunities span areas such as animal and bird care, research projects, photo cataloguing, assisting educators with programs, and supporting marketing and promotional campaigns. By working closely with supervisors, managers, educators, and animal care staff, you will gain meaningful exposure to potential careers in zoology, biology, animal science, conservation, and related fields.

14. Stormwater Modeling Intern – Geosyntec Consultants

Location: Orlando, FL, and Tampa, FL (Geosyntec Consultants Offices)
Stipend: Paid hourly, rate not disclosed
Dates: Summer: June 1–30; Fall: 10–15 weeks between September and December
Application Deadline: Summer: May 13
Eligibility: Students currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program, majoring in civil, geotechnical, environmental, or water resources engineering (or a similar field); a valid U.S. driver's license, and a good driving record

As a Stormwater Modeling Intern at Geosyntec Consultants, you will explore the practical side of civil and environmental engineering by focusing specifically on stormwater management. You will assist senior engineers with complex calculations, draft technical reports, and potentially head to sites to conduct fieldwork. Through these hands-on activities, you will learn essential skills like technical writing, applied engineering mathematics, environmental design, and professional consulting practices. Ultimately, you get a realistic preview of what an engineering career actually looks like on a daily basis.

15. Civil/Transmission Line Intern – Leidos

Location: Orlando, Florida (Hybrid/On-site, with ability to work in both field and office settings)
Stipend: $48,100 – $86,950 (prorated)
Dates: June 1–30
Application Deadline: Late February
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Science program, majoring in Engineering (Civil Engineering and Construction) and Mathematics; minimum 2.8 GPA on a 4.0 scale

In this internship, you will explore the concepts of power delivery, focusing on topics like steel and concrete structure analysis, foundation design, and substation structural planning. You will use PLS-CADD software to design transmission lines, perform material analysis on structural components, draft engineered drawings, and prepare detailed technical reports. You will collaborate directly with senior engineers to solve real-world grid challenges for diverse utility clients nationwide. Furthermore, you will engage cross-functionally with other utility disciplines, such as Protection and Controls, giving you a holistic view of the industry.

Image source - NASA logo