15 Internships for College Students in North Carolina
- Stephen Turban
- 12 hours ago
- 11 min read
If you're looking to apply your classroom knowledge in professional settings, internships offer a great opportunity to gain experience and start building your career. These internships can help you develop practical skills, expand your professional network, and take meaningful steps toward your career goals.
For college students in or near North Carolina, there are plenty of options to explore. The state is home to diverse industries, from technology to healthcare, providing a good environment for professional growth. When selecting an internship, it's important to consider factors like the quality of mentorship, the structure of the program, and networking opportunities. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of 15 well-regarded internships for college students in North Carolina across various fields, including policy, technology, media, environmental science, and healthcare.
If you're exploring even more competitive or specialized options, you can also browse this set of blogs.
15 Internships for College Students in North Carolina
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies depending on program type | Full financial aid available
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
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 places you in a selective, virtual internship with startups and nonprofits from around the world, making it a great summer internship for college students looking for flexible, meaningful work. You’ll take on a project that the organization genuinely needs, whether that’s in education, tech, marketing, or social impact, and work closely with your manager to see it through. By the end of the term, you’ll present your work to stakeholders, gaining practical skills in project management, collaboration, and communication. Because the internship is remote, it fits easily into a summer schedule while offering global exposure and professional connections.
Location: Various North Carolina state agencies across the state
Cost/Stipend: Paid | $15/hour, 40 hours/week
Dates: May 18–July 24
Application Deadline: January 30
Eligibility: Must be a permanent NC resident attending college (in-state or out-of-state) | Must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 | Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate | Must be continuing education in the fall | Law internships require one year of law school
You’ll work full-time for ten weeks in a state government agency, where your role is built around a specific project proposal submitted by agency staff. These internships are paid and designed to give you hands-on, career-relevant experience in public service, while also developing your leadership and professional skills. You’ll have the chance to participate in optional site visits and educational tours, such as behind-the-scenes trips to state museums or coastal facilities. The program also hosts a reception at the Governor’s Mansion, where you can meet other interns, supervisors, and government professionals. It’s a competitive, well-structured program that helps students explore and prepare for careers in public service.
Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
Cost/Stipend: Paid | $22/hour for 36 hours/week
Dates: May 18–July 24
Application Deadline: Opens in November
Eligibility: Undergraduate students enrolled full-time for the following fall semester | All majors are welcome | Must be in good academic standing
Through this cohort-style (each limited to a cohort of 5) internship, you’ll explore higher education philanthropy while gaining real-world experience at UNC-Chapel Hill. Interns are placed in development-related roles such as marketing, research, donor relations, or data management across various university units. You’ll spend four days each week on hands-on projects and dedicate Fridays to professional development workshops led by UNC staff. The program concludes with a capstone presentation, allowing you to reflect on and share your contributions. If you’re curious about fundraising, nonprofit work, or university advancement, this program offers an in-depth look at how development supports a large public institution.
Location: North Carolina General Assembly, Raleigh, NC
Cost/Stipend: Paid | $11/hour for undergraduates, $14/hour for graduate students
Dates: May 1–August 30 (Summer term) | Also offered in Spring and Fall
Application Deadline: Rolling | Apply anytime and indicate preferred term(s)
Eligibility: Must be at least 18 years old and either attend a NC school or be a permanent NC resident enrolled out-of-state | Must be enrolled in undergraduate or graduate studies
This internship places you directly within the fast-paced environment of North Carolina’s legislative process. Whether you’re assigned to the House or Senate, you’ll work with legislators and staff, gaining firsthand exposure to how policy is developed, debated, and enacted. Typical duties include research, constituent communication, legislative tracking, and administrative support. You'll also observe committee meetings and legislative sessions, giving you an insider’s view of state government. It’s a valuable opportunity for those interested in public service, law, or politics, offering real-world experience in a highly engaged and professional setting.
Location: Blue Cross NC, multiple locations across North Carolina
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Dates: May 18–July 24
Application Deadline: January
Eligibility: College students enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program
This 10-week summer internship offers you experience in areas such as corporate communications, healthcare, IT, finance, HR, marketing, and more. You’ll work on projects that impact both the company and its community, while attending networking events, mentorship sessions, and weekly leadership workshops. Each intern is matched with a mentor and assigned real responsibilities that contribute to Blue Cross NC’s goals. Fridays often include professional development opportunities, such as executive “Lunch and Learns” or Coffee Chats. If you’re looking for a structured internship that emphasizes both career preparation and community engagement, this program provides a well-rounded experience.
Location: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Raleigh, NC (onsite, remote, or hybrid)
Cost/Stipend: Paid | $20/hour for undergraduates, $25/hour for graduate students
Dates: June 2–August 8
Application Deadline: March 14
Eligibility: Sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate students enrolled in a four-year college or graduate program located in North Carolina
This 10-week summer internship places you within the NC Department of Health and Human Services, where you'll work alongside professionals in fields such as public health, behavioral health, environmental health, and health equity. You'll be assigned to projects that develop your skills in data organization, communication, research, and collaboration with both internal and external partners. The program is designed to support North Carolina’s systems of care by preparing students for careers in health and human services. Interns may work in-person, remotely, or in a hybrid format depending on the assignment. With weekly 40-hour schedules and direct mentorship, this internship gives you substantial exposure to real-world issues in health policy and social services.
Location: North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh, NC
Cost/Stipend: Unpaid | Selected internships, including Library Cataloging, offer $20/hour
Dates: January 26–April 10 (Spring) | Similar 10-week timeline for other terms
Application Deadline: November 14 (for Spring term)
Eligibility: College students, recent graduates, graduate students, and nontraditional students with a minimum GPA of 2.8
As an intern at NCMA, you’ll contribute to departments like graphic design, outreach, marketing, registration, and more, while working closely with staff mentors. The program includes enrichment activities, such as staff presentations and gallery tours, and concludes with a final project presentation. Interns are required to commit at least 10 hours per week, with schedules that can be adjusted as needed. While most internships are unpaid, some, such as the Library Cataloging position, offer compensation to students who meet specific criteria. This internship provides you with exposure to museum operations and the opportunity to work on real projects in a collaborative setting.
Location: PBS North Carolina, Research Triangle Park, NC
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Dates: Begins early June (typically 10 weeks)
Application Deadline: Applications for summer open during the academic year
Eligibility: Full-time undergraduate (12+ credit hours), graduate student (9+ credit hours), or recent graduate (after Spring) from an accredited college or university
These internships offer experience in various public media fields, including production, post-production, editing, business operations, social media, and marketing. You'll have opportunities to shadow production shoots, attend live studio tapings, and engage with leadership through job shadow days and mentorship. You’ll also collaborate with teams across departments and contribute to meaningful projects that align with PBS NC’s mission. In addition to skill-building, you’ll also be invited to provide feedback on the program to help shape future internship experiences. This internship is well-suited for students interested in media, communications, and nonprofit public broadcasting.
Location: Offices in Ocean, Wrightsville Beach, and Wanchese, NC
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program | Most internships are stipend-based ($5,760 to $8,600)
Dates: Generally mid-May–early August (12 weeks) | Marine Debris Internship runs June–August
Application Deadline: February 3 (for Nonprofit Internship Program) | April 30 (for Marine Debris Program)
Eligibility: Varies by program | Some open to rising sophomores through seniors at NC universities, others require enrollment in partner programs (e.g., ECU, CFCC, Duke) | Pell Grant eligibility required for some positions
These internships focus on coastal restoration, policy, environmental education, and nonprofit operations. Depending on your placement, you may help build living shorelines, support oyster reef projects, assist with public outreach, or compile policy research. Interns often engage in fieldwork, collaborate with state and federal agencies, and participate in tours and guest speaker sessions. Programs like the Marine Debris Internship also involve intensive field activities, including boat work and debris removal. With placements at various regional offices, the federation offers immersive, hands-on environmental experiences for students pursuing careers in sustainability or public service.
Location: NCDOT offices and divisions statewide (including Raleigh, Charlotte, Asheville, Wilmington, and more)
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Dates: May through August (year-round possible)
Application Deadline: March
Eligibility: Must be currently enrolled in an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s program with a minimum GPA of 2.3 | Must have completed at least 24 credit hours
This paid internship gives you a chance to gain hands-on experience in transportation-related fields, including civil engineering, environmental science, public communication, planning, geotechnical studies, and human resources. You’ll be assigned to a division or department based on your background and interests, with job locations available throughout North Carolina. Interns are placed in roles that support active transportation projects and agency operations, contributing to real-time improvements in infrastructure and public service. You'll also gain exposure to NCDOT's organizational structure, workplace expectations, and professional standards. This program is designed for students passionate about transportation, infrastructure, and public service.
Location: Wells Fargo, Charlotte, NC
Cost/Stipend: Paid | Corporate housing provided at no cost
Dates: Summer | Exact dates vary annually
Application Deadline: Applications open during the academic year
Eligibility: Current sophomores pursuing a bachelor’s degree, graduating in December or May/June two years later | Must be willing to relocate to Charlotte for the program | 6+ months of work experience, or equivalent demonstrated through work experience, training, military experience, or education
This program offers a comprehensive exploration of the financial services industry through job shadowing, training, and networking events at Wells Fargo. Over the summer, you’ll participate in technical and soft skills training, engage in an executive speaker series, and collaborate on a capstone project with other fellows. You'll also connect with Early Careers program participants to explore potential future pathways. At the end of the program, you’ll receive formal feedback and may be considered for a junior internship the following summer. This fellowship is especially suited for students interested in finance, analytics, or business, and offers a structured, high-exposure learning experience.
Location: Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC
Cost/Stipend: High school students: $4,000 | College students: $5,000 | Medical students: $8,000 | Participants must cover their own housing and transportation
Dates: June 22–July 24 | Additional remote components in early June and August
Application Deadline: January 2 (for high school and college students) | November 15 (for medical students)
Eligibility: High school seniors (rising or current), undergraduates, and medical students | Must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
In this five-week program, you’ll work in teams under the mentorship of Duke faculty to develop and complete a research project that could qualify for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. The experience includes hands-on instruction in research methodology, data analysis, and scientific writing, as well as lectures on medical ethics, statistics, and clinical medicine. If you’re 18 or older, you may also have the chance to shadow physicians during hospital rounds. This program emphasizes both collaboration and academic rigor, culminating in a formal presentation and submission of a research paper.
Location: Multiple locations, including Raleigh, Fayetteville, Greenville, Jacksonville, New Bern, Wilmington, and Elizabeth City, NC
Cost/Stipend: Unpaid
Dates: Offered during Fall, Spring, and Summer | Each term lasts one semester
Application Deadline: Varies by term
Eligibility: Minimum GPA of 2.9 | Preference given to graduate students or juniors/seniors majoring in criminal justice, psychology, sociology, social work, pre-law, or related fields
During this internship, you'll be paired with officers in both the Court Services and Supervision Services Units, providing you with exposure to pretrial investigations, sentencing recommendations, and the supervision of federal offenders. You’ll observe court proceedings, assist with report preparation, attend training seminars, and learn how case management works in the federal system. With a time commitment of around 16 hours per week, the internship aims to enhance your understanding of the federal judiciary and develop skills transferable across professional settings. You’ll also participate in writing summaries, performing investigations, and editing official documents. Though unpaid, this role offers significant insight into federal criminal justice operations.
Location: North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, Various Locations Statewide (Including Raleigh, Asheville, Greensboro, Greenville)
Cost/Stipend: Unpaid
Dates: Fall: August 19–November 21 | Spring: January 20–April 24 | Summer: May 19–July 24
Application Deadline: Fall: May 1 | Spring: October 1 | Summer: February 1
Eligibility: Juniors, seniors, and graduate students enrolled in a four-year degree program (minimum GPA of 2.0) | Applicants must pass a criminal background check, polygraph, and credit check
If you're interested in criminal justice or law enforcement, this internship with the NCSBI offers practical, hands-on experience in how a state investigative agency operates. Depending on your location and background, you could be placed in areas such as financial crimes, intelligence analysis (ISAAC), or district field offices across North Carolina. Interns assist with investigative processes and are expected to demonstrate integrity, responsibility, and strong moral character. The program is available on a part-time or full-time basis and offers a deep dive into real-world investigative operations, supplementing academic coursework with hands-on agency experience.
Location: North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro, NC
Cost/Stipend: Some internships offer stipends | Limited on-site housing is available at a reduced fee | Interns are responsible for housing, transportation, and food
Dates: Spring: January 12–May 20 | Summer: May 25–August 7 | Fall: August 9–November 14
Application Deadlines: Spring: November 16 | Summer: March 1 | Fall: June 1
Eligibility: Rising undergraduate juniors/seniors, current graduate students, or recent graduates (within 1 year)
The North Carolina Zoo Internship Program offers experience for students and recent graduates across multiple disciplines, including animal care, education, wildlife rehabilitation, horticulture, marketing, and research. Interns work alongside experienced zoo professionals in one of the world’s largest natural habitat zoos, gaining practical skills while contributing to conservation and daily zoo operations. The program emphasizes career development through mentorship, networking opportunities, and training tailored to each intern’s focus area. This program is ideal for students seeking a dynamic and meaningful experience in the fields of zoology or conservation.
One other option – 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. Also, 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!
Lydia is an alumna of Harvard University and studied Molecular and Cellular Biology & Economics. In high school, she was the captain of her high school’s Academic Decathlon team and attended the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology. She is working as a life sciences consultant after graduation.
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