Why Internships Matter in Healthcare
- Hands-On Experience: Learn the daily realities of healthcare leadership.
- Professional Mentorship: Gain guidance from seasoned executives and industry professionals.
- Networking: Connect with peers and leaders who can open doors for your future career.
- Career Exploration: Discover different areas of healthcare to find your best fit.
Breaking into healthcare leadership starts with the right experience. Internships are an invaluable way to gain practical skills, grow your professional network, and explore diverse career paths within hospitals, health systems, associations, and beyond.
This page highlights trusted organizations offering internship opportunities designed for students and early careerists who are eager to make their mark in healthcare. Whether you are seeking exposure to hospital operations, policy, consulting, or nonprofit healthcare leadership, these programs provide a strong foundation for your future.
Internship Opportunities from Leading Organizations
Below are organizations that consistently offer internships designed for students and early careerists interested in healthcare management and leadership:
American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)
Offers internships, fellowships, and structured career development programs to prepare the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA)
Provides connections to member universities and healthcare organizations offering structured internships in administration, policy, and consulting.
Health Career Connection (HCC)
Health Career Connection (HCC) is a comprehensive professional development program that provides paid summer internships to undergraduate and recent graduates in the field of public health and healthcare.
How to Get Started
- Explore Opportunities: Review the list of organizations above.
- Prepare Your Materials: Update your resume, draft a tailored cover letter, and secure references.
- Apply Early: Many healthcare internships recruit months in advance—don’t wait!
- Engage & Learn: Take full advantage of mentorship, networking, and project-based work.