15 Internships for College Students in Utah
- Stephen Turban
- Jun 19
- 12 min read
Internships can be one of the most effective ways to gain professional experience while still in college. They allow you to explore potential career paths, apply classroom knowledge in professional settings, and develop skills that employers value across industries. Depending on the opportunity, you may gain exposure to fields such as public policy, healthcare, research, finance, environmental science, technology, communications, and nonprofit work.
Utah offers a wide range of internship opportunities through universities, government agencies, research institutions, nonprofits, and private companies. From policy-focused placements at state legislatures and research roles at public-interest organizations to internships in healthcare, conservation, and business, students can find opportunities that align with a wide range of academic and career interests.
Why should I do an internship in college?
Internships allow you to build professional skills while gaining a clearer understanding of how organizations operate and how your academic interests translate into careers. Depending on the role, you might conduct research, analyze data, support projects, work with clients or community members, contribute to policy initiatives, or collaborate with professionals on day-to-day operations. These experiences can help you expand your professional network, strengthen your resume, and make more informed decisions about future academic and career goals.
With that, here are 15 internships for college students in Utah!
If you’re looking for remote internships, check out our blog here.
Key takeaways
Several internships are paid, including Utah Legislative Internship Program ($4,100 for the session), Utah State Auditor (competitive hourly rate), Utah Foundation (paid with limited spots), GE HealthCare (competitive hourly rate), and Kohl's (paid summer internship), while programs like VSFS and Utah Hogle Zoo offer unpaid but credit-eligible experiences.
Internships span a wide range of fields including public policy and government (Utah Legislature, State Auditor, Hinckley Institute, VSFS), environmental and natural resource science (Quinney College at USU, Hogle Zoo), healthcare and clinical psychology (GE HealthCare, Children's Center Utah), business and retail operations (Kohl's, Ladder University), and public policy research and communications (Utah Foundation).
Several internships are specifically designed for students at Utah universities, including Hinckley Institute (University of Utah), Quinney College (Utah State University), Utah Valley University Career Center, and Utah Tech University, giving in-state students structured pathways to professional experience with academic credit support.
Students interested in fully remote internships can apply to Ladder University Internship Program, VSFS, GE HealthCare, and Kohl's, all of which offer flexible work-from-anywhere arrangements compatible with academic schedules.
Deadlines for competitive internships vary widely, with VSFS closing July 31 for the academic year cycle, Utah Foundation closing by April 1 for summer, and the Utah Legislature closing in early October for January sessions, so students should begin identifying programs well in advance of each semester.
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Application deadline: Varies by cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Program dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks. Open to undergraduates and gap year students!
Ladder University Internship Program is a selective, virtual internship program where you work with startups and nonprofits from around the world! The startups range across a variety of industries. As part of their internship, each student will work on a real-world project that addresses a genuine need for the startup they are working with and present their work at the end of their internship. Interns work closely with their manager at the startup. Apply now!
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA (on-site at the State Capitol)
Stipend: $4,100 (paid, taxable)
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (competitive; open to all majors)
Dates: Winter semester (early January through mid-March; 45-day legislative session)
Deadline: Typically early October for the following January session
Eligibility: Current undergraduate students enrolled at a Utah university or college; all majors welcome; must be available full-time during the session
The Utah Legislative Internship Program places you directly with state legislators during the annual 45-day general session, giving you a front-row seat to how bills become law. You work as full-time staff for your assigned representative or senator, handling tasks such as tracking legislation, drafting correspondence, summarizing policy, researching issues, and communicating with constituents. Interns attend committee meetings, observe floor debates, and gain direct exposure to the policymaking process. The program is designed for students from any major who want hands-on experience in government, public policy, or political communication.
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah (hybrid options may be available)
Stipend: Paid (hourly rate; competitive with state intern wages)
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (selective; recruited through Utah University career centers)
Dates: Offered each semester (Spring, Summer, Fall); flexible scheduling during academic terms
Deadline: Spring – November; Summer – March; Fall – June
Eligibility: Current undergraduate students enrolled at a Utah college or university; strong analytical, writing, and computer skills preferred
The Office of the Utah State Auditor offers paid semester-long internships that give you hands-on experience in government auditing, financial analysis, and performance evaluation. You work with audit teams on projects that assess how state and local agencies use public funds, comply with laws, and achieve their goals. Responsibilities may include analyzing financial data, reviewing policies, preparing workpapers, and contributing to audit reports that are shared with lawmakers and the public. Interns gain exposure to governmental accounting standards, audit methodology, and the inner workings of Utah's accountability system.
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Stipend: Varies by internship (some paid, some unpaid/credit-based)
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (depends on individual internships)
Dates: Semester-based (Summer/Fall applications open)
Deadline: Varies by opportunity
Eligibility: Enrolled university students (support available for domestic & international students)
The Internship Support Program at the University of Utah functions as a structured system that helps you identify, apply for, and prepare for internships rather than placing you directly. You work with advisors who guide you through resume building, application strategies, and interview preparation. The program also provides access to curated internship listings across social and behavioral science fields. You receive support in understanding how to earn academic credit and meet program requirements. Regular sessions focus on professional development and career planning. The structure is designed to help you move from searching for opportunities to securing and completing them effectively.
Location: Hybrid (Utah)
Cost/Stipend: Paid (limited spots) / stipend-based for others
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (selective; limited positions per semester)
Dates: Summer: May–August; Fall: September–December; Winter: January–April
Deadline: Summer: April 1; Fall: August 1; Winter: December 1
Eligibility: College students with strong research, writing, or communication skills
Utah Foundation offers internships focused on public policy research and communication, where you work on projects related to education, healthcare, and economic issues. In the research track, you analyze datasets, review reports, and contribute to policy studies that are later published. In the communications track, you translate research findings into accessible formats such as articles, events, and digital content. Both roles require strong writing and analytical skills, along with attention to detail. You work with staff members who guide your assignments and review your output. The internship follows a structured timeline aligned with research cycles.
Location: West Valley City, Utah
Stipend: Varies (some unpaid/credit-based; doctoral roles typically funded)
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (competitive, especially for doctoral level)
Dates: Semester or summer term
Deadline: Varies by program
Eligibility: Undergraduate, Master’s, or Doctoral students in psychology, counseling, social work, or related fields
The Children’s Center Utah offers internships within a clinical setting focused on child and adolescent mental health. Your responsibilities vary depending on your academic level but may include observing therapy sessions, assisting with assessments, or participating in discussions about treatment planning. The program follows evidence-based clinical practices and emphasizes structured observation and supervised participation. You work alongside professionals from multiple disciplines, including psychologists and social workers. The internship includes exposure to early intervention programs and mental health services.
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Cost: Free (educational experience; some roles may offer credit)
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (selective; application-based)
Dates: Summer term (May–August)
Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: College students (completed sophomore year) or recent graduates; application with resume, transcript, and cover letter required
These internships at Utah's Hogle Zoo provide immersive, hands-on training in wildlife conservation and animal care. You may participate in field research, habitat restoration, or daily animal husbandry, depending on your chosen track. The program integrates scientific learning with public education, allowing you to communicate conservation concepts to diverse audiences. Interns also gain exposure to tools such as ecological monitoring systems and data collection methods. This experience is good for students pursuing zoology, environmental science, or biology.
Location: Logan, Utah (with on-campus and external opportunities)
Stipend: Varies (paid, unpaid, or credit-based internships)
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (varies by employer and role)
Dates: Year-round; typically aligned with academic semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer)
Deadline: Varies by internship opportunity
Eligibility: Enrolled students at Utah State University
The Career Design Center at Utah State University supports internships by connecting you with opportunities across multiple industries through platforms like Handshake. You apply for roles that align with your academic focus and career goals, while also receiving support in preparing application materials. The program includes guidance on how to structure your internship experience for academic credit. You may also complete reflective components as part of your coursework. Advisors help you evaluate opportunities and track your progress during the internship. The structure is flexible and depends on the role you secure.
Location: St. George, Utah
Stipend: Varies by internship (paid/unpaid/credit-based)
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (depends on employer opportunities)
Dates: Year-round; aligned with academic calendar
Deadline: Varies by internship listing
Eligibility: Enrolled students across disciplines
Utah Tech University’s internship program connects you with industry roles that align with your field of study. You work in professional settings where you apply academic concepts to practical tasks assigned by your employer. The program may include paid, unpaid, or credit-based internships, depending on the opportunity. You are expected to meet both workplace expectations and any academic requirements tied to the internship. Faculty or advisors may monitor your progress and provide support. The experience varies based on the organization and role you choose.
Location: Various local, state, and federal offices across Utah
Stipend: Varies (many paid roles; some unpaid or credit-based)
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (competitive; varies by organization)
Dates: Varies by internship provider
Deadline: Varies by opportunity
Eligibility: Primarily students at Utah Valley University
Utah Valley University’s Career & Internship Center provides access to internships within government agencies and public organizations. You may work on tasks such as legislative research, administrative support, or community outreach, depending on your placement. The program connects you with local, state, or federal offices where policies are developed and implemented. You are expected to contribute to ongoing projects and follow workplace protocols. The experience often includes interaction with public officials or organizational staff. Each internship has its own structure and expectations based on the host organization.
Location: Utah, Washington, D.C., and global locations
Stipend: Many paid opportunities; scholarships and funding available
Acceptance Rate: Competitive (especially for Washington, D.C. and global programs)
Dates: Semester-based (Fall, Spring, Summer)
Deadline: Varies by program and semester
Eligibility: University of Utah students; open to all majors
The Hinckley Institute of Politics offers internships in local, national, and international settings focused on public service and policy. You work in placements that may include legislative offices, nonprofits, or global organizations. Your responsibilities can involve research, communication, or administrative support, depending on the role. The program provides funding support for many placements, especially those outside Utah. You also participate in structured programming related to leadership and civic engagement. Advisors guide your placement and monitor your progress.
Location: Primarily Utah (field-based and partner sites)
Stipend: Many positions are paid; some may offer academic credit
Acceptance Rate: Not specified (selective; application-based)
Dates: Summer internships (May–August) with a preparatory Spring course and a Fall reflection course
Deadline: Varies by role
Eligibility: Undergraduate students enrolled in majors within Utah State University (including early-year students)
The Quinney College Internship Program places you in field-based roles connected to environmental and natural resource work. You work with partner organizations such as conservation agencies or government bodies on projects involving data collection, monitoring, or resource management. The program includes a preparatory course before the internship and a reflection course afterward. These components help you connect your fieldwork with academic concepts. You are expected to complete assigned tasks under supervision during the internship period. The experience often involves outdoor or site-based work.
Location: Remote (work from anywhere in the U.S. or abroad)
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate: Competitive; 300 interns selected per project cycle
Dates: Academic year (September through May; 10 hours/week)
Deadline: Applications open July 1 and close July 31 annually
Eligibility: U.S. citizen undergraduates (rising freshmen through seniors) and graduate students enrolled at least half-time during application and participation
The Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) is the U.S. Department of State's fully remote internship program that connects college students with federal agencies for project-based work over the academic year. You contribute about 10 hours per week to real government projects across data analysis, graphic design, social media management, research, app development, and policy support. Projects are hosted by agencies including the State Department, NASA, CDC, NIH, Department of Education, National Park Service, and many others. Because the program is virtual, you can intern from anywhere while balancing coursework. VSFS interns are unpaid but often qualify for course credit; you apply each July for up to five projects and are selected by agency mentors in August.
Location: Remote (select roles)
Stipend: Paid (competitive hourly rate)
Acceptance Rate: Competitive (20–30% estimated)
Dates: Summer (10–12 weeks, varies)
Deadline: Rolling (fall–winter hiring cycle)
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students
GE HealthCare offers remote internships where you work on projects related to healthcare technology, operations, or data systems. You collaborate with teams through virtual platforms while contributing to ongoing assignments. Your work may involve analyzing data, supporting IT systems, or assisting with operational processes. The program includes mentorship and structured online learning sessions. You are expected to meet deadlines and communicate regularly with your team. The internship follows a corporate work schedule over several weeks.
Location: Remote
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate: Competitive (25–35% estimated)
Dates: 10 weeks in the summer
Deadline: Rolling (applications open September onwards)
Eligibility: Undergraduate students
Kohl’s internship program places you within business functions such as marketing, finance, analytics, or technology. You work on assigned projects that connect to ongoing company operations. The program includes virtual or hybrid collaboration with team members, depending on your role. You also participate in structured sessions, such as workshops and networking events. Your responsibilities involve both individual tasks and group-based assignments. The internship runs for a fixed duration during the summer. The experience reflects how large retail organizations manage business operations across departments.
Frequently asked questions
What types of internships are available for college students in Utah?
Options include paid government and policy internships (Utah Legislature, State Auditor, Hinckley Institute, VSFS), environmental and conservation internships (Quinney College, Hogle Zoo), clinical and mental health internships (Children's Center Utah), public policy research internships (Utah Foundation), healthcare technology internships (GE HealthCare), business and retail internships (Kohl's, Ladder University), and university career center-supported internships (University of Utah CSBS, Utah State, Utah Valley, Utah Tech).
Which Utah internships are paid or provide stipends?
Utah Legislative Internship Program provides $4,100 for the 45-day session. Utah State Auditor pays a competitive hourly rate. Utah Foundation offers paid positions with limited spots per semester. GE HealthCare and Kohl's both offer competitive paid summer internships. Hinckley Institute provides funding support for many placements including Washington D.C. and global internships. VSFS is unpaid but often qualifies for academic credit.
Which internships are best for students interested in government and public policy?
Utah Legislative Internship Program places students directly with state legislators during the general session for full-time policy and constituent work. Hinckley Institute of Politics connects University of Utah students with legislative offices, nonprofits, and global organizations. VSFS offers remote placements with federal agencies including the State Department, NASA, CDC, and NIH. Utah State Auditor provides experience in government financial analysis and accountability auditing.
Are there internships in Utah open to students from any major?
Yes, several programs welcome students across disciplines. Utah Legislative Internship Program is open to all majors. Ladder University Internship Program accepts undergraduates from any field. Hinckley Institute is open to all University of Utah students regardless of major. GE HealthCare and Kohl's recruit across engineering, business, data, and operations backgrounds. VSFS offers projects spanning data analysis, design, social media, research, and policy.
Which Utah internships offer the most structured mentorship or professional development?
Ladder University Internship Program provides direct manager mentorship at a real startup with a final project presentation. Hinckley Institute includes structured programming on leadership and civic engagement alongside the internship. GE HealthCare includes structured online learning sessions alongside project work. Quinney College at USU pairs fieldwork with a preparatory spring course and a fall reflection course, creating a full academic arc around the internship experience.
When should I apply to internships for college students in Utah?
VSFS applications open July 1 and close July 31 for the academic year cycle, making it the earliest deadline. Utah Legislature applications are typically due in early October for the January session. Utah Foundation closes April 1 for summer internships. Hogle Zoo closes February 15 for summer placements. GE HealthCare and Kohl's accept rolling applications beginning in the fall. Students should begin researching in the summer and prioritize July and October deadline programs well before the start of the academic year.
One other option—the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here, check out students’ reviews of the program here and here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a graduate of Harvard College, where he earned an A.B. in Statistics. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.