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Public Health Policy Internship information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public health policy intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Health Policy Intern, you typically need a background in public health, policy analysis, or related fields, often supported by enrollment in or completion of a relevant degree program. Familiarity with data analysis tools (such as Excel or SPSS), public policy research platforms, and basic understanding of legislative processes is highly beneficial. Strong written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills distinguish successful candidates. These competencies are essential for effectively researching, analyzing, and communicating policy recommendations that impact public health outcomes.

What is the difference between Public Health Policy Internship vs Public Health Research Assistant?

AspectPublic Health Policy InternshipPublic Health Research Assistant
Required CredentialsUndergraduate or graduate student, relevant courseworkUndergraduate or graduate student, research experience
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, NGOs, policy officesResearch labs, academic institutions, public health organizations
Employer & Industry UsagePolicy development, advocacy, governmentData collection, analysis, academic research

While both roles support public health initiatives, a Public Health Policy Internship focuses on policy analysis and development within government or advocacy settings, whereas a Public Health Research Assistant emphasizes data collection and research in academic or scientific environments. The internship offers exposure to policy-making processes, while the research assistant role centers on empirical research skills.

What is a public health policy internship?

A Public Health Policy Internship is a temporary position, often for students or recent graduates, that provides hands-on experience in the field of public health policy. Interns work with government agencies, non-profits, or research organizations to support policy development, analysis, and advocacy. They may assist with research, drafting policy briefs, organizing events, and analyzing the impact of health policies. This internship is an opportunity to learn how public health decisions are made and implemented, and to gain valuable skills for a future career in public health or policy.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on during a public health policy internship?

As a Public Health Policy Intern, you will likely assist with research, data analysis, and the drafting of policy briefs or reports. Your tasks may include reviewing legislative proposals, compiling evidence to support policy recommendations, and attending stakeholder meetings. Interns often collaborate with experienced policy analysts and public health professionals, gaining exposure to real-world policy development and advocacy processes. This role offers hands-on experience and the chance to contribute meaningfully to public health initiatives while developing valuable analytical and communication skills.
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Public Health Policy Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Health Policy Internship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Public Health Policy Internship: 2026 fall term

American Public Health Association

Washington, DC • On-site

Internship

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Public health policy interns work primarily with staff in the Center for Public Health Policy (Center) and receive hands-on experience and insight into the integration of science, policy and practice in public health. The Center aims to influence public policy at all levels of government and within the private sector, and to serve as a catalyst for positive change. The Center creates innovative, analytical and informative resources that cover a wide range of public health disciplines and topics, such as climate change, health reform, chemical exposures, food safety, health equity, built environment, obesity prevention, public health infrastructure, and more.
This is an US-based internship, and candidates must be able to work in the US during the internship. APHA internships are unpaid and located in Washington, D.C.
The public health policy internship offers students the opportunity to build and strengthen professional skills particularly in research, analysis, writing, organization, and interpersonal communications. Interns conduct research and analysis to develop factsheets, issue briefs and other educational resources on a variety of issue areas including public health infrastructure, health reform, obesity prevention, health equity, and workforce. Other responsibilities may include attending relevant briefing and seminars, providing support for webinars, and assisting with committee and partner meetings.
All APHA interns also work on the Association's Get Ready campaign, writing blog posts and working on group projects each semester.
Undergraduate and graduate students are eligible for unpaid APHA internships. The internships at APHA are extremely beneficial to those seeking to acquire practical work experience in the above-mentioned areas. Candidates should be working toward a bachelors, graduate, or postgraduate degree, and all majors are welcome. Candidates should also have:
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills;
  • Research and analysis experience;
  • Strong interest in public health policy issues.

Applicants who meet the requirements and are interested in being considered for an internship position should upload the following information:
  • Cover letter;
  • Resume;
  • A writing sample;
  • Unofficial transcript; and
  • List of two references (from two individuals who know you well enough to discuss your qualifications, e.g., an employer or professor).

This is an US-based internship, and candidates must be able to work in the US during the internship. APHA internships are unpaid and located in Washington, D.C. Hybrid or remote options are available.
Vaccination Policy: Interns must adhere to APHA COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate Policy.
Deadline date: August 15, 2026 @5 pm EST (Eastern Standard Time)
EEO/AA/VETS/DISABILITY. APHA is strongly and actively committed to diversity in its workplace.

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