Experiential learning is central to the Public Health experience. Through internships, research, and study abroad programs, you’ll apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems, gaining skills and experiences that prepare you for future success.
The College of Natural Sciences (CNS) Experiential Learning for Public Health Majors Guide is designed to help you explore academic and experiential learning opportunities available for your major. Whether you're looking for research, internship, study abroad, or other experience, this guide will provide an overview of options you can partake in to explore your major and career in a meaningful hands-on way.
Undergraduate Research
One of the most in-depth experiential opportunities available to Public Health students is independent research within a faculty member’s research lab. Public Health students can participate in research on campus during the academic year and in the summer - on-campus, off-campus, or abroad. Check out our Steps to Joining a Research Lab Guide for even more resources and support.
On-campus Research Experiences
- Public Health Faculty
- EUREKA Project Search - a searchable database of research project opportunities at UT (Note: Many CNS faculty do NOT update Eureka)
- Dell Medical School Research Labs
- UT School of Pharmacy - Collaboration Areas of Research Excellence
- Department of Molecular Biosciences - Research Areas
- College of Education Faculty
- LBJ School of Public Affairs Faculty
- School of Social Work Faculty
- Sociology Faculty
- Psychology Faculty
- UTHealth School of Public Health – Austin Campus Faculty
Off-campus & Summer Research Experiences
These programs often take place over 8-10 weeks in the summer and many times include a stipend and housing/travel support. They are competitive and require an application. Application deadlines and requirements vary but are usually due in January or February and require at least one recommendation.
Public Health-Related Research Programs
- Fred Hutch Infectious Disease Training Program – paid summer program that develops the next generation of physicians and scientists with expertise in infectious diseases
- Home to Texas Research Internship - scholarship-funded summer program that connects first-year students with internship and research opportunities in their hometown communities.
- UT Austin American Cancer Society Undergraduate Research Internship - Undergrads from UT Austin are invited to join Dell Medical School for a yearlong experience in cancer research.
- UT Marine Science Institute offerings - Spend time doing cutting-edge marine science research in Port Aransas, Texas.
- Moncrief Summer Research Internship – UT research experience focused on modeling problems in energy, environment, advanced materials, biomedical research, nanomanufacturing, autonomous systems and other areas
- UTHealth Cancer Prevention (CPRIT) REU - This quality cancer education and career development program offers placements with accomplished researchers at UTHealth institutions across the state of Texas.
- MD Anderson CATALYST Summer Research Programs – Collection of summer research and career programs in cancer, anesthesia, veterinary medicine, imaging, and therapeutics.
- Rice BioNetworks REU - 10-week REU focusing on complex interactions among biomolecules that give rise to the diverse biological phenotypes observed in nature
- UT Southwestern Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences SURF Program - intensive summer research training experience designed for college students who are preparing for Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. careers in biomedical research
Research Program Databases
- National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program Search
- EduMed's Guide to Summer Healthcare Research & Internship Opportunities
- Pathways to Science Program Search
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) Summer Internship Program
- CDC Fellowship & Training Opportunities – CDC guide to internships and fellowship related to public health
- AAMC MD-PhD Summer Undergraduate Research Programs
- AAMC Summer Undergraduate Research Programs
- ORISE Research Internships & Fellowships Database
Resources for Getting Involved and Funding a Research Experience
- CNS Strategies for Getting Involved in Undergraduate Research
- CNS Funding for Undergraduate Research
- UT Undergraduate Research Fellowship
- McNair Scholars Program - seeks to increase the number of undergraduate students earning doctoral degrees who are low-income and first-generation. Scholars receive support from staff advisors as well as free GRE prep, travel awards, and participation scholarships.
- CNS Biotechnology Partnership with ACC - enables students to simultaneously earn their UT bachelor’s degree and the ACC Biotech Certificate acquiring skills for biotechnology industry
- Big Data in Biology Summer School - provides a unique hands-on opportunity to acquire valuable skills directly from experts in the field, with in-person and virtual courses tailored towards all levels. Hosted by the UT Center for Biomedical Research Support in May and June.
Presenting & Publishing Your Research
- UT Technology & Science Undergraduate Research Forum (URF)
- UT Fall Undergraduate Research Symposium (FURS)
- UT Research Week
- Texas Undergraduate Research Journal
- UT Research Travel Awards
- Visualizing Science Competition
- Gulf Coast Undergraduate Research Symposium - Rice University invites undergrads from around the world conducting research in engineering and natural science fields to attend and present their research
Internships
Internships are a vital way to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios, while also building professional skills and networks. The College of Natural Sciences offers numerous resources to help you find the perfect internship. We recommend visiting the CNS Career Services Career Guides by Major for additional guidance. You can also schedule an appointment with a CNS Career Coach.
Internship Opportunities
Public Health-Related Internship Program
- APHL Laboratory Internships – paid laboratory internships by the Association of Public Health Laboratories
- APHA Internships and Fellowships – paid internships by the American Public Health Association
- NIIMBL eXperience - a week-long, all-expenses-paid immersion program that offers students real-world insight into biopharmaceutical industry careers through hands-on activities and direct interactions with industry professionals
- HACU National Internship Program – federal agency internship program open to all undergrad students
- USAID Pathways Internship Program - USAID offers paid internships to undergrads in Washington, D.C. supporting program work in economic growth, agriculture, education, health, environment, democracy and governance, conflict prevention, and humanitarian assistance.
- Health Leadership Apprentice Program - Dell Medical School’s undergraduate experiential learning program for aspiring health leaders including projects that improve health and health care in Texas
- Garden Interns with UT EdEN Lab - the goal of EdEN Lab is to empower teachers and connect students to nutrition through education in school gardens
- Mickey Leland Environmental Internship - prepares undergraduate students their career journey through a paid, full-time summer internship, either at TCEQ, state agencies, or private sector
- Texas Health and Human Services Internship - internship program for undergrads with Texas HHS Commission
- Texas Department of State Health Services Internships - provide students with hands-on experience working on real-world public health projects in areas ranging from epidemiology, data analysis, communications, nursing, and more.
UT Austin Internship Opportunities
- UT System Internship - paid 10-week program that dovetails project-based work experience with robust professional development, mentoring and opportunities for self-reflection in many different career paths
- UT Zero Waste Program Internships - Interns develop leadership, interpersonal, and critical thinking skills in the process of providing valuable insight to zero waste initiatives, assisting in project development and implementation, and serving as an incubator and testing organization for new ideas
- Office of the Dean of Students Summer Internship Program - provides undergraduate students at UT the chance to get real-world professional experience in many different career paths while being supported by competitive compensation and housing assistance
- Home to Texas Internship - scholarship-funded summer program that connects first-year students with internship and research opportunities in their hometown communities.
- UT Internship Fund – find opportunities for funding for unpaid or underpaid experiences
Internship Databases
- Northwestern Global Health Internship Database
- International Internship Programs – UT Guide to international internship programs
- HireUTexas Internship Postings - UT’s Handshake postings for internships and jobs
- Built in ATX Job Forum - tech-related internships in Austin, TX
- USAJOBS - Federal internship and job postings
- EduMed's Guide to Summer Healthcare Research & Internship Opportunities
- CDC Fellowship & Training Opportunities – CDC guide to internships and fellowship related to public health
- American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Internship Database
- Zintellect - provides listings of internships, experiential learning opportunities, academic fellowships and scholarships funded by government and private sector organizations and administered by ORISE
Bridging Disciplines Program
The Bridging Disciplines Certificate Program offers sixteen different interdisciplinary certificates. All BDP certificates include unique internship or research experiences (Connecting Experiences) where you can apply the knowledge you’ve learned in your certificate courses.
Study Abroad
Studying abroad offers an unparalleled opportunity to expand your horizons, gain hands-on experience in your field, and explore new cultures. The College of Natural Sciences provides a wide range of programs specifically designed for your major, including:
UT offers hundreds of study abroad options. For a full list of programs and to get started on your study abroad journey, check out the resources below and visit How to Study Abroad to schedule an appointment with our CNS Abroad Advising team.
Study Abroad Resources
- CNS Abroad Guide – CNS Guide about how to study abroad
- Texas Global CNS Guide – UT Guide to study abroad options for CNS majors
- MyCreditAbroad Database – searchable database of previously approved Public Health coursework from study abroad programs
- Short-term Programs – UT Guide to short-term international programs
- Semester-long Programs – UT Guide to semester-long international programs
Research & Intern Abroad
- International Internship Programs – UT Guide to international internship programs
- Research Abroad Guide – UT Guide to international research experiences
Study & Intern Away Programs
- Archer Fellowship Program – UT Study & Intern Away Program in Washington D.C.
- UTNY – UT Study & Intern Away Program in NYC
- Semester by the Sea - Spend a semester on the coast and dive into cutting-edge research with this comprehensive spring program for UT undergraduates. Semester by the Sea combines coursework and research at our field station in Port Aransas.
Interdisciplinary & Career-Focused Experiences
Interdisciplinary and career-focused experiences provide you with the opportunity to apply your academic knowledge across various fields, preparing you for dynamic careers that span multiple disciplines. In the College of Natural Sciences, students can engage in unique, hands-on projects that bridge science, technology, business, healthcare and more. These experiences not only broaden your expertise but also enhance your employability by cultivating critical thinking and collaboration skills. Whether through research, internships, or study abroad, you'll gain valuable career-focused experience to prepare for the workforce.
Entrepreneurship
UT Austin offers many programs designed to foster entrepreneurship and support students with unique ideas. These resources provide the tools and mentorship needed to transform innovative concepts into successful ventures, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills to lead and excel in the business world.
- CNS Inventors Program - Interested in Entrepreneurship? The CNS Inventors Program empowers you and a team of fellow STEM undergraduates to turn scientific discovery into societal impact.
- UT Startup Ecosystem Guide - UT Guide to all entrepreneurial resources at UT
- The LaunchPad - UT Entrepreneurship hub that empowers students from all majors to explore and navigate their entrepreneurial journey
- Herb Kelleher Center – Entrepreneurship Center in McCombs open to all UT students
- Kendra Scott Institute – supports and develops entrepreneurial leadership in all UT students
- Longhorn Startup – CNS courses that supports startups in computer science, engineering, and business students in partnership with Capital Factory
- Innovation Center – startup resources for the UT community
- Harkey Institute – UT undergraduate programs in entrepreneurship including the entrepreneurship minor
- Discovery to Impact - Are you a UT researcher, staff member, or student with an idea or technology you think has potential? You’ve come to the right place. Discovery to Impact can help.
Leadership
Leadership is a vital skill that empowers individuals to inspire, influence, and guide others toward achieving common goals. Engaging in leadership opportunities not only hones these abilities but also positions students for successful careers by enhancing their problem-solving, team-building, and decision-making capabilities.
- Texas LEAD – Leadership Programs from the Office of the Dean of Students
- CoachUT - opportunity to receive free, executive-quality leadership coaching
- Project Advance - yearlong project management program partnering with local nonprofits
- Longhorn Impact Fellowship (LIFT) - pairs student consultants with sustainable corporations, social enterprises, and non-profits to solve sustainability and impact-focused problems.
Government
Government opportunities provide students with a unique lens into the workings of policy and administration, offering hands-on experiences that are invaluable for understanding public sector challenges and solutions. These experiences are crucial for those looking to shape policy, engage with community issues, and lead with a civic-minded focus in their careers.
- Archer Fellowship Program - UT fellowship program where students intern and take a full course load of in-residence courses in Washington, D.C. for a semester
- Texas Intelligence Academy - TIA is a competitive, all-expenses-paid, intensive academic program focused on intelligence and national security.
- Clements Center for National Security UT - resources and programs focused on national security
- Strauss Center for International Security and Law - resources and programs focused on international work
- HACU National Internship Program – federal agency internship program open to all undergrad students
- Mickey Leland Environmental Internship - prepares undergraduate students for their career journey through a paid, full-time summer internship, either at TCEQ, state agencies, or private sector
- Texas Health and Human Services Internship - internship program for undergrads with Texas HHS Commission
- Texas Department of State Health Services Internships - provide students with hands-on experience working on real-world public health projects in areas ranging from epidemiology, data analysis, communications, nursing, and more.
- CDC Fellowship & Training Opportunities – CDC guide to internships and fellowship related to public health
- Local Government – Cold-email your state rep/senator! Many of them take multiple undergraduate interns per semester
Health & Medical
There are many health and medical opportunities that prepare students for impactful careers in healthcare. These programs offer hands-on experiences in clinical, research, and policy settings, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to improve patient outcomes and advance medical science.
- Texas Health Catalyst Associate Program - Be a part of the Texas Health Catalyst’s work to accelerate the translation of innovations to health products through its semester-long program.
- Health Leadership Apprentice Program - Dell Medical School’s experiential learning program for aspiring health leaders including projects that improve health and health care in Texas
- MD Anderson CATALYST Summer Research Programs – Collection of summer research and career programs in cancer, anesthesia, veterinary medicine, imaging, and therapeutics.
- Health Careers Mentorship Program - Interested in physician shadowing and learning about the world of medicine? If you answered “yes,” then you’re a perfect fit for the UT Health Careers Mentorship Program
Health-Related Volunteering
- Hospice Austin Volunteering
- St. David’s Hospital Volunteering
- NAMI Volunteering
- Volunteer Crisis Counselor
Health-Related Experience Databases
Teaching & Mentoring
UT Austin has many programs to help you develop your teaching, mentoring, facilitation, and leadership skills. These opportunities enable students to refine their ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, foster supportive learning environments, and guide others in both academic and professional settings, preparing them for influential roles in education and beyond.
- Biology Undergraduate Teaching Assistant - scroll down to “Jobs” then “Apply for UGCA Position”
- Many departments hire Undergraduate Learning/Teaching Assistants (UGLAs) so keep an eye out for opportunities in the Public Health department.
- Sanger Learning Center - Tutors, Supplemental Instruction (SI) leader, Peer Academic Coaches, Public Speaking Peers, and more!
- UTeach Outreach - one of the largest outreach initiatives and strives to broaden participation by inspiring students to take an active interest in STEM.
- CNS Career Services Peer Career Coaches (spring application)
- Pre-Health Professions Peer Coaches (spring application)
- FIG Mentor (fall application)
- Orientation Advisor Recruitment (fall application)
- FRI Peer Mentor (semesterly application, restricted to current FRI students)
- Longhorn SHARE Project - SHARE Support Peer Specialists
- CNS TIP Peer Mentors (TIP students only)
- Title IX Peer-to-Peer Facilitators (fall application)
- Longhorn Wellness Peer Educators
- Student Conduct Board & Restorative Practice Student Facilitators
- UT Zero Waste Program
Community Engagement & Volunteering
Volunteering and community engagement are excellent ways for students to give back and learn new things. These activities enhance personal development by fostering empathy and leadership, while also offering practical experiences that deepen understanding of social issues and community dynamics. Check out UT Austin's GivePulse to find opportunities and sign up for the newsletter.
- Hospice Austin Volunteering
- St. David’s Hospital Volunteering
- Volunteer for the Environment ATX
- Austin Science Fair Volunteering
- NAMI Volunteering
- Casa of Travis County
- Volunteer Crisis Counselor
Americorps Programs
AmeriCorps members serve directly with nonprofit organizations to tackle our nation’s most pressing challenges including poverty, health, climate change, disaster response, and beyond.
- Americorps VISTA - address community challenges where the need is greatest. Usually health-related or health-adjacent.
- Americorp NCCC - gain experience while supporting climate change mitigation, building affordable housing, disaster response, and more. You will travel the country, all expenses paid, and earn money for college while serving on a team full-time.
Experiential Learning Student Organizations
Joining student organizations is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience and collaborate with peers from diverse disciplines. Serving as part of the leadership team of any student organization is a valuable experience and a great way to build your resume. Some UT student organizations also offer experiential learning and career development.
- Texas Convergent - student-run organization that bridges the gap between science and technology by working on innovative, cross-disciplinary projects
- Freetail Hackers - UT’s largest student-led hackathon group, providing coding, design, and innovation experiences
- Fika ATX - organization focused on promoting entrepreneurship and innovation through networking and collaboration opportunities.
Skill Development & Certifications
You can use a variety of free tools and certifications to help you learn both soft and hard skills that employers want. Make sure to read job descriptions for positions you are interested in for the future to see which skills you need to develop now.
- LinkedIn Learning - online educational platform with more than 5,000 courses that helps you discover and develop business, technology-related and creative skills through expert-led course videos. This service is free for all current UT students, staff, and faculty.
- Coursera’s Career Academy - through the Career Academy, the UT community has the opportunity to explore over 30 career areas in Software Engineering & IT, Business, Sales & Marketing, and Data Science & Analytics