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.
- A preference will be given to local applicants for all intern positions.
- Students must be available for an in-person interview.
- Internships may require enrollment in a Master's level program depending on the assignment.
Application Process
Phase I - Application Submittal
A complete application package must include:
- Letter of Interest
- Resume
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
- Emergency Management: Amy Noll
- Homeland Security, Critical Infrastructure, Cyber Security or Colorado Information Analysis Center: CIAC Internship Coordinator
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I apply? To complete your internship application, submit a letter of interest, and resume. Application materials can be submitted electronically or via ground mail.
- When to apply? The recruitment period for those focused on emergency management is April through May.
- How long is the internship period? Typically, internship terms are for nine months. Interns must be available to work a minimum of four-eight hours per week.
- What are the eligibility requirements? Applicants must be enrolled as students at an accredited institution of higher education.
- Are there any age restrictions? Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
- Are interns compensated? Benefits to the internship experience include university credit, practical work experience, state training and networking opportunities.
- What type of work will I do? Interns can perform research, review planning documents, contribute to the development of exercise programs, monitor grant programs, and community outreach, attend meetings, conduct presentations, plan events and more. Motivation, initiative, and drive are the ultimate factors that will determine the opportunities available.
- Will applicants undergo security and background checks? Successful applicants will be required to pass a background check and polygraph.
- Are there specific requirements for an internship focused on homeland security within the CIAC? The CIAC Internship Recruiting Brochure contains additional details on internship requirements.