We are looking for energetic students who are eager to learn to join our team of interns!

Internships with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) give students work experience and an opportunity to connect with other professionals in a real-work environment. DFPS offers internships state-wide across all programs, however the type of opportunities might vary based on the region.

Types of Internships

There are two types of internships at DFPS:

  • Client-focused internships, where students work side-by-side with APS, CPS, and CPI caseworkers as they interact with families, investigate cases, and provide services.
  • Support internships, where students work alongside office staff across different programs to complete high-level project-based assignments and research. Programs may include the Faith-Based and Community Engagement Division, Legal, Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Division, State Office APS, CPS, CPI, PEI, and Internal Audit.

Required Skills

Interns need to exhibit the following 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.

Additional Requirements and Information

  • Generally, internships at DFPS are unpaid.
  • Applicants must allow DFPS to conduct a criminal history and DFPS background check.
  • Student interns who will have access to criminal history information are required to be fingerprinted for an FBI check. This costs around $15, and DFPS generally does not cover the cost.
  • Some positions require a valid Texas driver’s license.
  • Client-focused interns must be at least 18 years of age.

How To Apply

If you wish to apply for an internship, these are the steps in the application process:

  1. To get started, submit the online interest form along with your resume and cover letter.
  2. Staff will review your information and will contact you if they are interested in setting up an interview. All interns are interviewed either virtually or in-person.
  3. Selected candidates will be sent the DFPS volunteer application and confidentiality form to complete and sign electronically.
  4. Once forms have been received, staff will submit the required background checks.
  5. Upon receiving clearances, the student will be connected to their supervisor to set their start date and schedule any required trainings. Trainings vary based on the program area and type of internship.

Please note:

The following Regions are the only ones accepting Interns for the Summer and Fall 2023 Semesters.

Accepting Interns
Region 3
Region 4
Region 5
Region 6
Region 7
Region 8
Region 9
Region 10
Region 12
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Frequently Asked Questions

What divisions of DFPS can I intern with?

Internships may be available in the following offices:

Can I fulfill my practicum at DFPS?

Depending on the availability in your area, practicums may be fulfilled at DFPS.

Does my internship have to fulfill an official curriculum requirement?

No. An internship is something you choose to do to develop skills and learn more about specific careers. If your educational institution has official curriculum requirements for your internship, please provide the requirements when you complete the online internship interest form.

Does DFPS require affiliation agreements or memorandum of understandings (MOU) with colleges or universities?

DFPS does not require an affiliation agreement or memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a college or university. However, DFPS has a process for creating one if the educational institution requires it.