Child Life internships are offered three times per year, beginning in January, May-June, and September. Internships are full time and extend for 14 or more weeks, depending on school schedules. Because we are only able to interview students who meet the general prerequisites and our criteria for student selection, please review the following requirements before applying. To be eligible, you must be a college senior, graduate or master’s degree candidate and possess:

• Core curriculum classes or degree in child life, child development or a closely related field
• Student or work experience with children in group settings
• Knowledge of psychosocial issues related to illness or hospitalization
• Grade point average of B or better in major field of study

Interviews will be scheduled after the following has been completed and submitted in one mailing:

• Student program application (download PDF using link at right under "Related Topics")
• Current transcript
• Resume
• Three letters of professional recommendation

In accordance with the Child Life Council, application deadlines are as follows:

Application to the program does not guarantee admission. Once received, all of the materials will be reviewed thoroughly. Applications take a minimum of two weeks to process. Late applications will be considered only if space allows. Those individuals who qualify will be contacted by telephone to arrange an interview.

Program Benefits

• Opportunity to work with a culturally and socioeconomically diverse patient population
• Opportunity to work with patients with a broad range of pediatric diseases and congenital problems
• Experience in all areas of the medical center where child life has a presence, including the oncology clinic, radiology, emergency department, sleep laboratory and dialysis unit
• Exposure to innovative Child Life Programs, including:
  • Artists in residence
  • Massage therapy
  • Therapeutic magic
  • Animal-assisted therapy
  • Therapeutic humor