12 Internships for High School Students in Wisconsin
Internships provide high school students with a valuable opportunity to explore their interests in a real-world setting. These programs not only help students gain hands-on experience but also offer insight into the day-to-day realities of working in their chosen field. With internships, students gain a deeper understanding of potential career options and see how the subjects they are passionate about are applied in professional settings.
This practical exposure can help foster essential skills such as problem-solving, communication, and adaptability, all of which are valuable in any field. Additionally, internships help students build a strong portfolio—an important component for college applications, especially in creative fields. Demonstrating a commitment to exploring and developing their skills through internships can make a significant impact on their applications, showing colleges that they are proactive, dedicated, and eager to learn beyond the classroom.
Here, we have compiled a list of 12 internships for high school students in Wisconsin. The list includes both virtual and accessible opportunities and on-site internships in the state of Wisconsin.
Cost: $2,490 (Financial Aid Available)
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year.
Program Dates: Multiple 8-week cohorts throughout the year, including summer, fall, winter, and spring.
Eligibility: Open to high school students, undergraduate, and gap year students.
Ladder Internships places students with startups and nonprofits worldwide. The program offers a diverse range of fields to explore, including technology, machine learning, finance, environmental science, healthcare, and media. Interns gain valuable experience working on real-world projects, often contributing directly to business outcomes. Interns will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and experience what it’s like to be part of a leading startup. The startups involved are located across the globe, with a significant number based in the United States, Asia, and Europe, including the UK.
Mentorship is a key feature of this program, with each intern being supported by both company professionals and a Ladder Coach, ensuring a personalized experience. The flexibility of the virtual format allows students to balance their internships with other commitments, making it accessible to a broad range of participants globally.
Cost: $4,070 for residential students; $2,420 for commuter students (Application fee: $75)
Location: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
Application Deadline: Applications typically open in January and close in May
Program Dates: Summer(exact dates TBA)
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12
Badger Summer Scholars is a 3-week residential college preparatory program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Participants engage with UW-Madison faculty in small, focused academic tracks of their choosing, gaining firsthand experience of college-level education. Students explore a variety of subjects, ranging from the arts to sciences, while also attending workshops on the college admissions process, financial aid, and essay writing.
Students choose one non-credit academic track to focus on, with small class sizes ensuring personalized instruction. The program also emphasizes practical aspects of college preparation, helping students make informed decisions about their academic futures. This program offers a structured and informative experience aimed at preparing students for the transition to higher education.
3. ARISE Cancer Research Program
Cost: Free
Location: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
Application Deadline: Applications open on December 1
Program Dates: Summer (Exact dates TBA)
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 6-12, especially from underrepresented backgrounds in biomedical fields
The ARISE (Advancing Research in Science Education) Cancer Research Program offers students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds the chance to participate in groundbreaking cancer research at the University of Wisconsin. This hands-on summer internship places students in research labs where they gain experience with cutting-edge cancer research techniques. Interns will be mentored by Principal Investigators and actively contribute to ongoing cancer studies.
In addition to lab work, participants engage in enrichment activities such as career exploration panels, workshops on medical ethics, and sessions on scientific communication. Additionally, interns will assist with various research tasks in the lab and work on their own individual research projects. This internship offers a opportunity to be involved in cutting-edge cancer research while fostering a deeper understanding of the field.
Cost: Free
Location: Remote and On-site (options available)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Program Dates: Year-round (flexible scheduling based on project)
Eligibility: Open to middle and high school students, as well as community members of all ages and nationalities
The Green Scholars Program by Seaside Sustainability is an honors-level, project-based initiative designed for middle and high school students, focusing on environmental literacy, professional skills, and project management. The program encourages students to create tangible, sustainable change in their communities. It provides participants with hands-on experience in projects like trail restoration, sustainable seafood initiatives, aquaponics, and environmental advocacy.
Participants work on critical environmental projects, initiatives, and legislation through internships with Seaside Sustainability, a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Seaside Sustainability is dedicated to community engagement, public education, and environmental conservation and offers a range of opportunities for students to contribute to meaningful work in environmental and STEM fields.
By participating in this program, they help address environmental challenges, build a foundation for future success, and foster ethical and social responsibility. The program operates year-round with flexible scheduling options, making it accessible to a wide range of participants.
5. Women in Technology Program
Cost: $950
Location: Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), Milwaukee, WI
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions until full
Program Dates: June 23 - June 28
Eligibility: Open to high school girls entering grades 10 through 12
The Women in Technology Program at MSOE is a week-long residential camp designed for high school girls to explore various engineering fields. During the program, participants explore disciplines such as construction management, biomedical, civil, electrical, mechanical, and software engineering, all taught by MSOE faculty with support from female engineering students. The program also includes industry tours, allowing students to see how engineering is applied in the real world.
In addition to the academic activities, students enjoy evening recreational events like bowling, interactive comedy shows, and tours of Milwaukee, ensuring a balanced and engaging experience. This program provides a supportive environment to inspire young women to pursue careers in STEM fields, giving them hands-on exposure to diverse engineering disciplines.
6. Marquette University Urban Journalism Workshop (UJW)
Cost: $500 (Financial assistance available for students on free/reduced lunch)
Location: Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Application Deadline: December 1
Program Dates: Academic year (August – June)
Eligibility: High school students from the Milwaukee area
The Urban Journalism Workshop (UJW) at Marquette University is a year-long program that provides Milwaukee-area students with hands-on experience in journalism. The program offers two tracks: Immersive, for students ready to commit to in-depth monthly experiences and a summer internship at a local newsroom, and Exploratory, for those who are just starting to explore journalism.
Participants will visit professional newsrooms, attend online workshops with journalists, and produce their own stories. Those in the Immersive track will complete a four-week summer internship in a local newsroom, gaining real-world experience in reporting, writing, and digital storytelling. The workshop culminates in the publication of student work in the Urban Voice, the workshop's annual online magazine.
Cost: $800 (includes housing, meals, snacks, and evening activities)
Location: St. Norbert College, De Pere, Wisconsin
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions until filled
Program Dates: June 11 - 14, or June 18 - 21
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
The Summer Academy of Medicine is a collaborative program between the Medical College of Wisconsin-Green Bay and St. Norbert College. Held over 3.5 days, this residential camp gives students the opportunity to explore careers in medicine and biomedical sciences. Participants will engage in hands-on laboratory exercises, diagnostic simulations with standardized patients, and discussions about medical ethics, teamwork, and leadership.
Held in the state-of-the-art Gehl-Mulva Science Center, this program allows students to experience what it's like to be a physician or researcher. Participants will gain insights into the skills, educational pathways, and personal attributes necessary for careers as physicians, researchers, or scientists. A limited number of scholarships are available.
8. Smithsonian Science Education Centre Internship
Cost: Free (Paid stipend available for select roles)
Location: Virtual and in-person (Washington, D.C.)
Application Deadline: March 31
Program Dates: 8-10 weeks, May-August (flexible scheduling)
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 and older
The Smithsonian Science Education Center offers internships for high school students to gain hands-on experience in communications, digital media, and curriculum development. Interns work closely with professionals to develop educational guides focused on sustainability, particularly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Participants engage in tasks such as conducting interviews with subject matter experts, performing research, editing educational materials, and assisting in the development of teaching resources. Interns may also contribute to the center’s communication efforts, including social media, and will have the chance to collaborate on science education projects with a global impact.
Applications are accepted through the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA). Applicants must create an account, select their program preferences, and submit their application directly through SOLAA. No direct submissions to the SSEC are accepted.
9. Lawrence Summer Music Institute
Cost: $950 tuition + $575 for lodging and meals (commuter options available)
Location: Lawrence University, Appleton, WI
Application Deadline: June 1
Program Dates: July 14 - 21
Eligibility: High school pianists and string players (grades 8-12); audition required
The Summer Music Camp at Lawrence University provides a one-week residential program tailored for high school students who are passionate about advancing their musical talents. The camp offers a structured environment where students can immerse themselves in their chosen instrument, whether it be piano, violin, viola, cello, or double bass.
Participants will benefit from personalized private lessons and group coaching sessions designed to refine their technical skills and enhance their musical expression. The camp's curriculum includes skill workshops focused on various aspects of musicianship, such as technique, interpretation, and ensemble performance. Each student will also undertake a chamber music repertoire assignment, working closely with faculty members to prepare and perform in a final showcase.
In addition to the musical instruction, students will engage in topical symposia aimed at broadening their understanding of music and its applications. The program's intimate setting, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 4:1, ensures that each participant receives individualized attention and support. The camp also fosters a collaborative and creative environment, encouraging students to connect with their peers and gain valuable performance experience.
10. Beloit College Summer Academy
Cost: $2,000
Location: Beloit College, Beloit, Wisconsin
Application Deadline: May 1
Program Dates: June 16 - 29
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors (age 16 or older)
This two-week residential program offers high school students the opportunity to engage in a rigorous exploration of themes related to truth, authenticity, and deception. Participants will delve into the course theme, “Would I Lie to You? Fakes, Forgeries, Fantasies,” through a combination of lectures, workshops, and group projects. The program is designed to develop critical thinking skills and provide insight into various academic disciplines, including history, chemistry, and neuroscience.
Students will experience campus life, engage in structured activities such as group discussions and excursions, and earn 1 hour of transferable college credit. The program also includes opportunities for social activities and exploration of the surrounding region.
11. High School Science Research Internship Program - UW-Madison
Cost: Free (Participants receive a stipend)
Location: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
Application Deadline: Usually early February
Program Dates: 9-week summer program (typically June to August)
Eligibility: 11th-grade students enrolled in a Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) high school at the time of application.
The High School Science Research Internship Program is a prestigious partnership between the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) and the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison). This program offers 11th-grade students the chance to engage in authentic scientific research by pairing them with researchers at UW-Madison for a summer internship, engaging in hands-on scientific research for 20-25 hours per week over the summer.
Participants explore various areas of scientific inquiry, ranging from environmental science to biomedical research, and gain practical lab experience. As part of the program, interns are required to attend an orientation meeting in March, accompanied by a parent or guardian, and participate in all group seminars held on campus during the summer. These seminars cover various aspects of scientific research, including methodology, ethics, and communication.
The culmination of the internship is the creation of a formal scientific poster, which the interns design to showcase their research findings. This poster is presented at a scientific poster session, the concluding event of the program. This session allows interns to communicate their work to a broader audience, including university associates, teachers, friends, and family, while also celebrating the successful completion of their internship.
In addition, interns must fulfill all requirements for the Wisconsin Youth Leadership Skill Certificate, which adds an extra layer of recognition to their accomplishments.
Cost: $2,490
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple 8-week cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Eligibility: Open to high school students who have prior experience with AI/ML or have completed a Veritas AI program
The AI Internship Program by Veritas AI is founded and run by Harvard graduate students. Through the 8-week internship, students have the opportunity to work with VC-backed startups on real-world AI/ML projects. Students work directly with mentors from Harvard, Wharton, Google, Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, and more.
This program is a great opportunity for students who have prior experience with AI/ML and are looking to gain real-world exposure to a career in the field. Students get a chance to network with industry professionals, work closely with company leadership, and receive a letter of completion from the company at the end of the internship. You can learn more about the program here and apply here.