Current Undergraduate Students

HDFS Undergraduate Internship

The Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) undergraduate internship is a culminating, field-based experience designed to help students apply classroom learning in real-world settings. This intensive placement allows students to develop professional skills and gain valuable experience aligned with their academic and career goals.

Internship applications are due each March for internships taking place in the following academic year (Fall, Spring, or Summer). For example, apply by March 2026 for an internship in Fall 2026, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027.

To be eligible for the HDFS internship, students must meet the following requirements:

· Completion of all HDFS-prefix courses with a grade of C or better

· Minimum 2.5 GPA

· Senior standing

· Successful completion of HDFS 405

Given the intensive nature of the internship placement, students who are pursuing Human Development and Family Science (formerly known as the Child and Family Studies Community Outreach track) are encouraged to consult with their advisor and/or the internship coordinator when considering whether to take additional courses with internship.

Research Internship: HDFS 490

In very special circumstances, students with strong research foundations and interests may partner with an HDFS faculty member to complete a research practicum (HDFS 490). Students interested in the research option should identify current HDFS research labs or projects of interest and consult with the corresponding faculty member. 

Community Placement: HDFS 480N

The vast major of students complete a practicum in our local community. Practicum is an opportunity for students to enhance their professional and personal development by gaining practical experience in their field, exploring career interests, and learning more about individuals, families, and communities and the support services available to them. 

HDFS Internship Checklist

HDFS Internship Placement Options

International Students

If you are attending the University of Tennessee on a student visa (F-1 or J-1), you must have work authorization before participating in any internship experience, whether it is on-campus or off-campus, paid or unpaid. Please speak with an advisor in International Student and Scholar Services (https://international.utk.edu/) to discuss work authorization as soon as possible and at least 2-3 weeks prior to beginning your internship.

Have questions? We can help you navigate

  • Interested in an HDFS major or minor (formerly Child and Family Studies)?  First contact the CEHHS Office of Advising and Student Services for your preliminary advising needs. If you would like to research more about our programs or declare a major or minor, visit our Undergraduate Programs tab on the menu above.
  • A current CFS-Community Outreach or HDFS student and unsure who your advisor is? Please contact our undergraduate specialist.
  • Need to discuss HDFS major or minor advising needs? Meet with your advisor in the CEHHS Advising Center or contact Dr. Sally Hunter, HDFS Advising and Student Success Coordinator. 
  • Questions about the Interpersonal Skills minor? Contact Dr. Jeff Cochran.
  • Questions about HDFS internship after reviewing the materials above? Contact Ms. Robin Anderson.
  • Questions about HDFS study abroad? Contact Dr. Heidi Stolz.

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