Local Health Internship Program (LHIP)

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Local Health Internship Program is hosted by the Division of Epidemiology each summer.

Division of Epidemiology | Summer 2026

We place 20-45 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students with local/regional/tribal and state health partners to work on pressing public health projects. You are expected to commit to a minimum of 160 hours during the summer (May-August). You may work more hours as required for school practicums, pending prior agreement with your internship supervisor. 

Undergraduate students are paid $20 an hour for up to 160 hours of work. Graduate students are paid $25 an hour for up to 160 hours of work. The projects are posted each February, and applications are open from mid-February until mid-March.

Sample project areas

  • Data analysis and dashboards
  • Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNAs)
  • Focus groups and qualitative research
  • Environmental sampling and field work
  • Public health education (including messaging, materials, and campaigns)
  • Social media and health communication campaigns
  • Substance use disorder–related projects
  • And much more, tailored to local/regional/tribal and state needs!

Steps to apply

  1. Sign into your Google Account (required for applications).
  2. Review the 45 projects listed in the LHIP Offering Booklet [PDF].
  3. Fill out one primary application (requires you to upload your resume/cv, letter of recommendation, and unofficial transcript). Link is located on page 3 of the LHIP Offering Booklet.
  4. Fill out secondary application(s) (up to 3). Links are located on page 3 and 4 of the LHIP Offering Booklet. Please note: you must live within 40 miles of your selected site.
  5. A member of the Local Health Internship Team will notify you of your application status by May 1st, 2026.

This year’s applications will be open until March 15, 2026. Students may apply to a maximum of three placements. Both the primary application and secondary application(s) must be completed for consideration.

Eligibility requirements

  • At least the minimum age required by federal, state or local laws and employment standards
  • A U.S. citizen, or appropriate employment authorization documentation
  • A student enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a degree-seeking student for the duration of the internship timeframe
  • Able to produce a letter of verification from your educational institution showing proof of enrollment
  • Able to complete and sign CORI paperwork (in Boston)
  • Able to communicate effectively in English
  • Applicants must have reliable transportation to the posting they rank (some positions may not be as accessible via public transit) and live within 40 miles of the placement

Questions?

Contact the Local Health Internship Team.

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