Internships

The Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) Internship Program provides students with a unique opportunity to apply classroom skills and theory to real-life work situations. This hands-on program is designed to strengthen fundamental emergency management concepts and develop the confidence and skills of the next generation to prepare them for future employment opportunities.

As an intern, participants are expected to employ their skills and abilities to contribute to the objectives of their assignment. Our internships provide exposure to industry professionals and promote career development. To support that endeavor, interns will be placed based on interests and specific project availability.

The internship program placement is for a term of nine months. All participants are expected to intern for a minimum of four to eight hours a week for the entire term of the program. Specific schedules will vary according to the position.

Intern responsibilities and tasks vary by location and can include conducting research, plan development/review, attending meetings, training and exercise development, grant administration and more. Students will be connected with an on-site supervisor for guidance and support.

The DHSEM Internship Program is an unpaid program. Benefits of the internship experience include university credit, practical work experience, state training and networking opportunities.

We work carefully to match the interests and expertise of each selected intern with a corresponding project.

Prerequisites

To apply applicants must be enrolled in an accredited college or university.

Application Process

Phase I - Application Submittal

A complete application package must include:

Submit the above materials via e-mail to the appropriate Internship Coordinator at the contact information provided below.

Phase II - Selection Process

After applications are reviewed, candidates meeting the criteria will be contacted for an interview. Interviews may be conducted by program staff and/or internship employers.

Applicants seeking a CIAC internship must complete a testing process. This is an online test covering: homeland security, intelligence writing, cyber intelligence and critical infrastructure.

Phase III - Placement

Selected candidates will receive notification of their acceptance and placement location. Due to the nature of many of the internship assignments, the completion of additional security procedures may be required prior to receiving an official offer. These steps vary according to placement area but typically include a background check and polygraph.

Internship Coordinators

Frequently Asked Questions

Internship Documents