Working for the Department of Homeland Security can be a dream come true for anyone interested in a career that is more than just simple law enforcement, which is still an honorable choice these days. The DHS is responsible for public safety and was created in response to the horrific September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States. There are over 240,000 employees for the DHS across the world, and most of those acquired an internship from the department before acquiring their dream job.
1. Pathways Program
The Pathways Program offers a path to federal internships for students. A student or recent graduate looking to break into the Department of Homeland Security will most likely begin their journey with this particular internship. The program focuses on a wide variety of topics with opportunities to work in various agencies and explore other Federal careers while still in school.
The internships within the Pathways Program involve students acquiring a development program with both training and mentorship from officials within the Department of Homeland Security already. Applicants must apply within two years of receiving their degree, except for veterans, who have six years to apply.
2. Law Enforcement
A law enforcement internship is the most common and known available at the Department of Homeland Security. Most college students will opt for this program before any other. The internship program is a unique opportunity for students to practice in a federal law enforcement environment.
The internship offers hands-on experience with law-enforcement activities and practices and practical training. Students who participate in the internship will have opportunities to build their character, learn all about citizenship and how to be a good citizen, and to build their physical fitness levels, all of which are needed for a career in any type of law enforcement.
3. Legal
The legal internship at the Department of Homeland Security is a volunteer program for law students seeking the chance to work on assignments offering valuable experience and responsibility for the Office of the General Counsel within the Department of Homeland Security headquarters in Washington D.C.
Alternatively, law students can opt for an internship with the department to acquire professional experience and earn academic credit during the spring or fall semesters of college. Most will take on substantial responsibilities during said internship, allowing them to receive a first-hand look at their career field. Law students could find much worse opportunities. This is the direct experience needed for such a career.
4. Public Affairs
Public Affairs is the face of the Department of Homeland Security. An internship with the Office of Public Affairs generally includes the opportunity to support the mission of handling external and internal communications within the department. The OPA generally responds to media inquiries, maintains the official website, writes speeches and coordinates speaking events for officials within the Department.
OPS also oversees all department employee communication activities, which includes town hall meetings between all employees and management. Students will learn about the incident communications program, which guides federal activity and coordinates with state, local, and international partners for accurate and timely information.
5. Intelligence and Analysis
The Office of Intelligence and Analysis offers an internship program for undergraduate and graduate students seeking a career with homeland security and intelligence operatives. The elite internships are hard to acquire, and generally include the areas of Intelligence Analysis, Intelligence Operations, Management/Support, Information Technology, and Policy.
Students participating in an active internship with I&A will be provided with the necessary experience and skills needed to produce intelligence professionals used by the Department of Homeland Security across the entire country. This is a prestigious position that requires more hard work and skill than anything else.
Related Resource: Top 10 Best Online Homeland Security Degree Programs
The Department of Homeland Security’s internship programs are an interesting way to develop your career. Most students would be lucky to enter one such program.
