The Health Research Training Program (HRTP) at the NYC Health Department stands as a premier and long-established public health traineeship in the nation, offering an unparalleled Public Health Career Exploration Program.
For over six decades, HRTP has been instrumental in shaping future public health professionals by providing undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students with invaluable firsthand experience in the dynamic field of public health. This immersive program allows students to tackle current and pressing public health challenges under the guidance of seasoned experts. By bridging academic knowledge with practical application, HRTP internships serve as a crucial practicum, fostering the development of essential skills for a thriving public health career.
The core objectives of this transformative program include:
- Introducing students to the foundational principles and practical applications within public health, encompassing planning, research, administration, and evaluation methodologies.
- Expanding students’ understanding of the multifaceted nature of public health, illuminating the diverse needs, challenges, and vast career opportunities available in this vital sector.
- Strengthening the Health Department’s workforce by attracting and cultivating talented individuals with demonstrated potential in public health.
Interns participating in the summer session benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that complements their practical assignments. This includes seminars, workshops, and various activities designed to provide a deeper understanding of the strategies employed to enhance the well-being of New Yorkers.
For detailed application instructions, please refer to the Getting Started: An Instruction Guide for Student Applicants (PDF).
Program Sessions
HRTP offers sessions throughout the year to accommodate varying student schedules:
- Summer Session: Runs from June to August with full-time (up to 35 hours per week) and part-time (minimum 20 hours per week) options.
- Fall Session*: Takes place from September to December, available part-time only, requiring between 10 and 20 hours per week.
- Winter/Spring Session*: Held from January to May, also part-time only, demanding 10 to 20 hours weekly.
* Please note that NYC residency is a prerequisite for participation in the Fall and Winter/Spring sessions.
Funding Opportunities
Financial assistance is generally available for students accepted into the HRTP program across various placements. For students who are not eligible for funding, volunteer positions are also an option.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this enriching public health career exploration program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Enrollment as a matriculated undergraduate, graduate, or professional student in a degree-seeking program at an accredited U.S. college or university.
- Recent graduates are not eligible to apply.
- Applicants must maintain good academic standing.
- NYC residency is mandatory for the Fall and Winter/Spring sessions. Summer session applicants have no residency restrictions.
Ready to Apply?
Prospective interns are responsible for submitting complete application packages by the specified deadlines. Only applications that are fully completed will be considered for placement. A complete application includes:
Key Application Deadlines
- Summer Session: Application window is open from January 15th to February 15th.
- Fall Session: Submit applications between July 15th and August 15th.
- Spring Session: Applications are accepted from October 15th to November 15th.
For further inquiries regarding the HRTP public health career exploration program, please contact [email protected].
