The State of South Dakota Intern Program was created to provide opportunities for students to gain first-hand knowledge and understanding of governmental processes through pre-professional work experiences in various occupational fields. The Intern Program offers internships for students in many areas, some of which include accounting, corrections, education, engineering, fisheries and wildlife, law, marketing, nursing, pharmacy, public relations, and technology-based.
To be eligible for a State of South Dakota Internship, students:
Internship Duration
There are three intern program sessions offered, which include: spring (January-April), summer (May-August), and fall (September-December). Exact starting and ending dates are arranged between the intern and the hiring supervisor with most sessions typically lasting 3-4 months.
Compensation
All internships announced under the South Dakota Intern Program are paid. The hourly wage is indicated on each position announcement. All internships are full-time unless otherwise indicated on the position announcement.
Other internship opportunities within state government may be available for students who need educational internships. These internships may or may not be paid and are arranged directly with the department or agency and are not subject to the guidelines of the South Dakota Intern Program. All interested interns must contact the department or agency directly for more information.
Housing
The State of South Dakota does not provide housing to its interns, nor do we assume the responsibility for finding housing for interns. However, in an effort to help interns begin their search for housing, we have listed contact information statewide to aid in the housing search. It is the responsibility of the intern to make any contacts. Click here for housing contact information.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Does the state offer any other type of internships?
A: Other intern opportunities within state government may be available for students who need educational internships to earn a degree. These intern opportunities are arranged directly with the department or agency and are not subject to the guidelines of the South Dakota Intern Program. For example, they may not qualify as a paid internship. For more information, please contact the department or agency directly.Q: Does the state provide housing for interns?
A: No, the state does not provide housing for interns. If a facility has housing available, they will announce it in their position description. We have provided some basic numbers to help interns begin their housing search (see "Housing" above), otherwise, please refer to local newspapers and chambers of commerce for rental information.
Q: Am I eligible to apply for an internship if I am an international student?
A: As long as you are attending a college or university in the United States, have proper documentation to work temporarily in the United States, and meet all program eligibility requirements (see "Eligibility Requirements"), you are eligible to apply for an internship. Proper documentation will be required at the time of hire and must be submitted before you begin working.
Q: Does the State of South Dakota sponsor international students?
A: At this time, the State of South Dakota does not sponsor international students. All students who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply; however, all students seeking employment beyond the internship must meet all United States work requirements and provide all required documentation.
