Public Health Scholars (Internships)
The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) offers students a dynamic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in public health. As a RIDOH Public Health Scholar, you'll collaborate with professionals on impactful projects that address real-world health challenges. This program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds and provides flexibility in project selection, duration, and compensation options. Whether you're looking to fulfill academic requirements, gain volunteer experience, or explore potential career paths, the program is designed to support your professional growth while contributing to public health initiatives in Rhode Island.
What you can do
RIDOH Public Health Scholars collaborate with RIDOH's public health professionals and academic faculty to develop and implement joint projects. Projects may include:
- Development of public health messages
- Planning, development, implementation, or evaluation of public health efforts
- Performance of work-flow analysis
- Design and administration of surveys and collection and analysis of datasets
- Preparation of reports or assistance in writing program plans, measures, and strategies.
Students from all disciplines, including public health, epidemiology, pharmacy, nursing, law, marketing, communications, management, information technology or other programs of study, are encouraged to apply for RIDOH Public Health Scholar positions. Your experience as a RIDOH Scholar will provide you with an opportunity to learn about state public health departments, how public health in Rhode Island saves lives every day, and how your career may intersect with public health. Scholars work with a specific program for a semester, academic year, or season, depending upon the project, scholars’ availability, and course requirements (if applicable). Projects are designed to advance RIDOH’s public health goals and scholars work under the supervision of both RIDOH staff and academic faculty from their home institution.
Details and FAQs
When does the Public Health Scholar Program start?
We onboard students on a rolling basis and start dates can vary by project, availability, and preference of supervising staff. Once selected, you'll discuss this with staff to receive specific start dates and details.
How long does the experience last for students placed in the program?
The duration of the program depends on the project you are selected for and your availability. Some projects last a semester, others may extend through the academic year or a specific season. We work with you to ensure the project fits your academic schedule.
How do I find out about specific projects?
A project list will be posted in the future, check back.
How many students are selected each cycle?
RIDOH hosts anywhere from 10-30 students at one time. Selection is dependent on the number of projects and staff available to host and supervise a Scholar.
Can I participate in the program if I am enrolled in an online degree program?
Yes! The format of your degree program is not considered for placement; however, projects will specify if they are remote or onsite.
RIDOH Public Health Scholar experiences are open to students at all levels from undergraduate through post-graduate studies.
Who is eligible to apply for the RIDOH Public Health Scholar Program?
The RIDOH Public Health Scholar Program is open to students from all academic disciplines, including public health, epidemiology, pharmacy, nursing, law, marketing, communications, management, information technology, and more. While students at all levels of education are welcome to apply, priority will be given to undergraduate and graduate students.
Do I need to be a public health major to apply?
No, RIDOH encourages students from a variety of academic backgrounds to apply. Public health touches many different areas, so whether you're studying communications, law, biology, or public health itself, your skills and experiences are valuable.
Do I need to have prior public health experience to apply?
While prior experience in public health is helpful, it is not required. The program is designed for students to gain practical experience, so we welcome applications from students in any stage of their academic career.
Can I apply if I am not currently a student (e.g., recent graduate)?
The Public Health Scholar Program is primarily designed for currently enrolled students, but recent graduates and other prospective students may be considered.
Do I need to have a certain GPA to apply?
We evaluate applicants holistically and consider their skills, background, and interest in public health. You will be prompted to provide your GPA in your application, but it is not required.
Do you require background checks for the program?
Background checks may be required. It is dependent on the hiring methods and related grant deliverables associated with the assigned project.
RIDOH Public Health Scholars can be compensated through a variety of methods depending upon the resources of the sponsoring RIDOH program. These methods include scholar experiences for academic credit, volunteer experience, or payment. RIDOH hosts a limited number of paid Scholars; however, we encourage Scholars to volunteer or request academic credit at your college or university.
Are Scholar positions paid or volunteer?
RIDOH offers a limited number of paid scholar positions, though many students participate in the program for academic credit or as volunteers.
Can I receive academic credit for this internship?
Yes! We encourage students to speak with their academic advisor to see if the program can be counted toward academic credit at their institution. The experience may align with course requirements for internships, practicums, or fieldwork.
Who makes the final decision about my placement?
While the Scholar Program Manager coordinates the placement and onboarding process, the hiring supervisors in each department make the final decision about student placement.
Why am I asked to choose multiple project options in my application?
Since we have many departments with different needs, we ask you to select multiple projects. This gives us flexibility in matching your interests with available opportunities. If your first choice isn't available, we’ll try to place you in one of your other selected projects.
Can I work remotely or is the program in-person?
Some projects may be eligible for remote work, however certain projects using data or other sensitive information may require you to work on-site at a RIDOH location. Additionally, some projects may require in-person engagement within our communities or participation at local events. Projects are labeled remote, hybrid, and onsite.
Is there a dress code for in-person placements?
Typically, the dress code is business casual in our offices, however, this can be dependent on the project you have been placed in. For example, if you are working in the lab, you will need to follow specific safety regulations rather than RIDOH's dress code.
How many hours per week are students expected to work?
The time commitment depends on the specific project. Most scholars work 10-15 hours per week during the semester and 20-35 hours in the summer, but this varies from program to program.
Will I have the opportunity to network with RIDOH staff?
As a Public Health Scholar, you'll have many opportunities to network, including attending Public Health 101 Webinars, participating in team meetings, and collaborating directly with RIDOH staff. You will also have access to networking events and professional development sessions throughout the program.
Will I receive mentorship during my time as a Public Health Scholar?
Yes! Scholars are paired with a supervisor who is a public health professional within RIDOH. Additionally, there are often mentorship opportunities available from other staff members, giving you guidance and insight into different areas of public health.
What happens after I finish the Public Health Scholar Program?
Upon completion of the program, scholars will have gained valuable experience that enhances their resume and career prospects in public health. While there is no guarantee of permanent employment at RIDOH, many scholars go on to pursue further opportunities in public health or are eligible for internships and job openings within RIDOH.
Can I apply for full-time employment at RIDOH after completing the program?
While the Public Health Scholar Program is an internship-based experience, scholars are often encouraged to apply for full-time positions at RIDOH once they’ve completed their degree and gained the necessary skills. Keep an eye on job openings listed on the Rhode Island State Careers website.
How does the Public Health 101 Webinar Series fit into the program?
The Public Health 101 Webinar Series is a free educational resource available to all students and public health professionals, including those who are not selected for a Public Health Scholar position. The series allows participants to learn about the work being done at RIDOH, network with public health professionals, and get an inside look at the department’s efforts to address public health challenges in
What if I need accommodations for the program?
We are committed to making reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Please contact us ahead of time to discuss any specific needs, and we’ll work to ensure an inclusive and supportive experience for you
How do I connect with RIDOH staff if I’m not selected for a project?
If you’re not selected for a specific project, you’re encouraged to attend the Public Health 101 Webinar Series and other events organized by RIDOH. These provide great networking opportunities and a chance to meet public health professionals from various RIDOH programs. Additionally, mentorship opportunities may be available for students interested in learning more about specific areas of public health.
Who can I contact if I have additional questions about the program?
If you have specific questions that aren’t addressed here, feel free to contact the RIDOH Public Health Scholar Program directly at Jennifer.ricci@health.ri.gov. We’re happy to assist you!