Executive Pathways summer internship opportunities

About Executive Pathways 

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) offers paid internship opportunities for college students to explore a rewarding career in public service. DHS, in collaboration with community and partners including Tribes, counties, non-profit and for-profit providers, supports people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives.

The Executive Pathways Internship Program focuses on a diverse workforce by developing the talents of students as they prepare for professional employment. Graduate and undergraduate students majoring in public policy, statistics, psychology, social work, law, public health, sociology and other human services-related fields are encouraged to apply and have the opportunity to learn how public policy is developed and implemented in a large and complex government organization.

Through this internship program, students have the chance to be part of many well-publicized and highly visible policy decisions that impact Minnesotans' quality of life.

Each placement is designed to provide in-depth learning opportunities in a state government setting. The Executive Pathways Internship Program is a paid internship program and students will work 30 to 40 hours per week between June to August. Due to the pandemic, all internship positions will be remote. 

Eligibility and requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be a sophomore, junior or senior in an associate's, bachelors or undergraduate program or be in a graduate program. We accept students who will be attaining a degree in May.
  • Be in good academic standing and be able to provide proof of current educational enrollment.
  • Have the ability to work in the United States.
  • Be available to work (telework) 30-40 hours per week between June and August (exact dates TBD).
  • Be willing to submit to a background check prior to starting the internship.
  • Must reside in the State of Minnesota throughout the duration of the internship. 

Applications will be accepted through March or until positions are filled. Please email DHS Human Resources at dhs.internships@state.mn.us for further information.

2026 internship opportunities

Our internship opportunities span a variety of work areas including operations, policy, equity and inclusion, community engagement work, and many more! Specific opportunities will be posted soon.

Apply online

The 2026 application period will open mid-February. All interested candidates must officially apply online through the State of Minnesota Careers website. 

  1. Go to www.mn.gov/careers. 
  2. Click “External Applicants” (or “Current Employees” if you are a current state employee).
  3. On the Job Search page, use the keywords “executive pathways” and search for openings. 
  4. Click on the Internship Title to view the job posting.
  5. If interested, click Apply and follow the instructions provided.