Internships

Student internship opportunities are available to Masters level students who are seeking full-year placements in one of the following service areas: family services / child protection, developmental disabilities, children's and adult mental health, and senior services.

Family Services / Child Protection

Interns work directly with an experienced Child Protection social worker, learning how Anoka County enforces state mandates while building positive relationships with families in crisis through the assessment, investigation and case management process. Supervision is provided directly by the Child Protection Unit supervisors. Services are typically delivered in client homes or other community settings with the Government Center serving as the intern’s main office.

Developmental Disabilities

Interns can designate their preference in terms of working with adults or children or both. Students work with a variety of social workers, learning the full gamut of how services are provided to people with disabilities and are supervised directly by the unit Supervisor. Services are typically delivered in client homes or other community settings with the Government Center serving as the intern’s main office.

Children’s & Adult Mental Health

Interns can designate their preference in terms of working with adults or children or both. Students work with a variety of social workers, learning the full gamut of how services are provided to people with disabilities and are supervised directly by the unit Supervisor. Services are typically delivered in client homes or other community settings with the Government Center serving as the intern’s main office.

Senior Services

Interns will work directly with one social worker, conducting assessments and providing case management services. Students will be exposed to the full range of services offered and supervised by the social worker.

Qualifications

Students wishing to apply for an internship position must meet the following qualifications:

  • Be enrolled in a Masters level social services related program
  • Be available September - April
  • Prior experience in human services is preferred
  • A commitment to serving the general community & comfort level working in a government bureaucracy
  • Ability to work cooperatively with team members
  • Ability to work independently in the field following completion of orientation and training
  • Ability to communicate ideas and needs effectively

Process

Prospective interns must complete an Anoka County application including a criminal background and driver’s license check. Applications for the school year beginning in September are accepted January through April. Positions are limited.

Interested students can contact the Internship coordinator at 763-324-1661 for further information.