DFPS - Internship at DFPS

Thinking About an Internship at DFPS?

How to Apply

All internships are set up through your university. Check with your college advisor to see if connections have been made with DFPS. If not, your advisor should contact your regional volunteer coordinator to get something started.

Please Note:

Generally, internships at DFPS are unpaid.
Applicants must authorize DFPS to conduct a criminal history and DFPS background check.
Some positions require a valid Texas driver’s license.
Child Protective Services and Adult Protective Services interns must be at least 18 years of age.

Required Skills

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work with a diverse population.
Ability to work independently.
Good reading and writing skills.
Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information.

Looking for a really meaningful internship? DFPS staff are in homes, schools, and clinics working to strengthen family ties in cases where there has been abuse or neglect. This hands on experience leads to more intensive and meaningful client contact while acquiring skills useful for the real world.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) offers internships that develop the necessary skills for a career in social work. Interns will have the opportunity to meet people who are working everyday in the field whether in Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, or Child Care Licensing. Interns accompany social workers as they work one-on-one with families, law enforcement, advocacy centers, lawyers, judges, and others to ensure our clients’ safety and well-being.

Internships must fulfill an official curriculum requirement and are set up through your university. As a rule, internships at DFPS are unpaid. All candidates must authorize DFPS to conduct a criminal history and DFPS background check.

Administrative Internships
DFPS also offers select internships at its state headquarters in Austin for students seeking careers in government relations, community engagement, communications, research, or policy development. For more information on administrative internships, please contact our Community Engagement staff.

FAQ:

How soon should I apply?
Prospective interns should apply two months, and at a minimum, one month before the semester starts. Your internship cannot begin until all necessary background checks are completed.

Can I fulfill my practicum at DFPS?
Most DFPS internships are field practicums for future caseworkers. Typically, undergraduate placements last all semester, usually accruing around 640 hours (40 hours per week).

Does my internship have to fulfill an official curriculum requirement?
Yes. If you will not be fulfilling a practicum or receiving course credit, please visit www.dfps.state.tx.us/volunteer for a wide range of volunteer opportunities.