The Tennessee Extension Internship Program provides students an opportunity to link classroom learning and campus leadership experiences with professional work experience. Gain hands-on work experience while exploring a career in Extension!
What is Extension?
UT Extension provides a gateway to the University of Tennessee as the outreach unit of the Institute of Agriculture. It is a statewide educational organization, funded by federal, state and local governments, that brings research-based information about agriculture, family and consumer sciences, and resource development to the people of Tennessee where they live and work. With an Extension office in every county in Tennessee, Extension provides real life solutions to local communities.
Learn more about our locations here. One of the best ways to learn about Extension is to stop by or reach out to your local Extension office to talk with your local Extension Agent.
Why choose an internship with Tennessee Extension?
These are just a few of the reasons an Extension internship could be for you!
- Stipend – All summer internships are paid.
- A variety of hands on experience and field experience – no two days will look the same!
- Choose your location (county-based internships)
- Great networking – Make connections in your community and with Extension professionals across the state that will open career doors.
- Get involved in your community and make a difference! Extension improves the quality of life for Tennessee residents through research-based education.
- Work alongside and be mentored by experienced Extension professionals.
- Develop professional experience and skills.
- Strengthen communication and presentation skills.
- Develop leadership skills.
- Learn about career directions and opportunities in Extension.
What do past interns say about the internship experience?
Hear from Past Interns
We asked a few of our 2023 interns about their experience. Hear from them in the videos below.
Finding Your Passion
Elizabeth Skelton talks about how the internship helped her find a calling. Watch here.
A Variety of Opportunities
Mackenzie Mason talks about how the internship showed her how much Extension does and that there’s an opportunity out there for everyone. Watch here.
Linking Classroom Learning
Madeline Kilpatrick talks about how she expanded her knowledge and skills in her subject matter of family & consumer sciences. Watch here.
Internship Opportunities and Application Information
Internships at a Glance
Keep scrolling to learn more about each internship and to access application materials.
| Internship Name | Accepted Majors | Overview of Application Requirements | Deadline | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UT Minority Internship | Agriculture, family and consumer sciences, education or related major | Open to sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students Must be considered to be a member of a racial or ethnic minority group. Minimum 2.7 GPA | Feb. 29, 2024 | 2024 application is OPEN |
| Family & Consumer Sciences Career Edge Internship | Nutrition, child and family studies, community health, financial management, human ecology or other closely related major. | Open to sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students Minimum 2.7 GPA | Feb. 16, 2024 | 2024 Application is OPEN |
| Agriculture and Natural Resources / Community Economic Development Internship | Agriculture (specific major varies by position) | Open to juniors, seniors, and graduate students Minimum 2.7 GPA | Feb. 29, 2024 | 2024 application is OPEN |
| Altria Internship | Agriculture, natural resources, environmental science or closely related major | Open to juniors and seniors. The student should also have at least one more semester to complete after the summer internship has ended. Minimum 2.7 GPA | Feb. 29, 2024 | 2024 application is OPEN |
| Tennessee State University Internship | Agriculture, family & consumer sciences, education, or closely related major | Open to juniors or seniors. Preference given to students presently enrolled at TSU. Must have completed approximately 60 credit hours of required coursework for a Bachelor’s degree. Minimum 2.7 GPA | TBD | 2024 application not open yet |
How Do I Apply?
1. Complete the Online Application
Most internships require that you apply online using UT’s application system. Access the link below for step-by-step instructions on how to create an account and submit an online application.
2. Attach the Required Application Materials
Note that each internship requires a resume, transcripts (official or unofficial), and a completed addendum. All documents must be attached to your online application for it to be considered complete. Applications cannot be consdered until all documents have been submitted.
Resume
All internships require a resume. For some tips and resources for developing an effective resume, see the resources below.
Resume Resources – UT Center for Career Development and Career Exploration
Transcripts
All internships require a minimum 2.7 GPA to apply. Please make sure to upload your transcript, which can be an official copy or an unofficial copy, to show your GPA and completed coursework.
Addendum
Make sure you download the correct addendum for the internship you are applying for, fill in your information in the PDF form, and upload it to the online application system.
UT Extension Minority Internship
The internship provides students from historically underrepresented racial and ethnic groups an opportunity to link classroom learning and campus leadership experiences with professional work experience. Interns will gain hands-on work experience while exploring a career as an Extension Agent. Interns will study, observe, and participate in a county Extension program under the direction and supervision of experienced Extension Agents.
Deadline: Apply by February 29, 2024. Selected applicants will be interviewed and notified of selection by May 1, 2024.
Location: Flexible. Interns will be placed in a county Extension office for the duration of the internship. Applicants will identify their top 3 preferred counties in the application addendum, which will be considered in placement.
Responsibilities include:
- Plan, prepare, and implement research-based educational programs in Extension subject matter areas (family & consumer sciences, agriculture & natural resources, or 4-H youth development), under the supervision of an Extension Agent.
- Complete an internship e-portfolio and an educational project.
- Present a report of the internship experience at the end of the program.
- This position requires travel connected with official duties within the assigned county and participation in occasional out-of-county events.
- This position requires participation in some evening and weekend events that occur outside of normal business hours.
Pay:
$6,840 (gross) for the 10-week internship is provided for each intern. Mileage reimbursement will be provided for travel to and from orientation and the final presentation day in Knoxville. Housing or housing allowance is not provided.
Application Requirements:
- Must be considered to be a member of a racial or ethnic minority group.
- Must be enrolled in a college of agriculture, family and consumer sciences, education or related major.
- Must be a sophomore, junior, or senior by the time of the internship start date, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 (4.0 scale), or be a current graduate student.
- Should be considering Extension as a future employment option.
- Must be available full-time during the internship period.
- Must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the assigned county. Applicants will provide county placement preferences on the required application addendum.
- Must have reliable transportation to and from work.
- While all eligible applicants will be considered, preference will be given to undergraduate students presently enrolled in a Tennessee university or who are residents of Tennessee.
Job Description:
How to apply:
- Complete online application.
- Attach resume to online application.
- Attach transcript (official or unofficial) to online application.
- Download and complete addendum form. This form must be completed and attached to your online application packet in order for your application to be considered complete.
Contact
For more information, please contact Brandi Berven.
UT Extension Family & Consumer Sciences Career Edge Internship
The internship provides students majoring in family & consumer sciences an opportunity to link classroom learning and campus leadership experiences with professional work experience. Interns will gain hands-on work experience while exploring a career as an Extension Agent. Interns will study, observe, and participate in a county Extension program under the direction and supervision of experienced Extension Agents.
Deadline: Apply by February 16, 2024. Selected applicants will be interviewed and notified of selection by May 1, 2024.
Location: Flexible. Interns will be placed in a county Extension office for the duration of the internship. Applicants will identify their top 3 preferred counties in the application addendum, which will be considered in placement.
Responsibilities include:
- Plan, prepare, and implement research-based educational programs in Extension subject matter areas (family & consumer sciences), under the supervision of an Extension Agent.
- Complete an internship e-portfolio and an educational project.
- Present a report of the internship experience at the end of the program.
- This position requires travel connected with official duties within the assigned county and participation in occasional out-of-county events.
- This position requires participation in some evening and weekend events that occur outside of normal business hours.
Pay:
$6,840 (gross) for the 10-week internship is provided for each intern. Mileage reimbursement will be provided for travel to and from orientation and the final presentation day in Knoxville. Housing or housing allowance is not provided.
Application Requirements:
- Must be enrolled in a college of Family & Consumer Sciences and/or majoring in nutrition, child and family studies, community health, financial management, human ecology or other closely related major.
- Must be a sophomore, junior, or senior by the time of the internship start date, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 (4.0 scale), or be a current graduate student.
- Should be considering Extension as a future employment option.
- Must be available full-time during the internship period.
- Must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the assigned county. Applicants will provide county placement preferences on the required application addendum.
- Must have reliable transportation to and from work.
- While all eligible applicants will be considered, preference will be given to undergraduate students presently enrolled in a Tennessee university or who are residents of Tennessee.
Job Description:
How to apply:
- Complete online application.
- Attach resume to online application.
- Attach transcript (official or unofficial) to online application.
- Download and complete addendum form. This form must be completed and attached to your online application packet in order for your application to be considered complete.
Contact
For more information, please contact Wendy Smith.
Agriculture & Natural Resources / Community Economic Development Internship
The internship provides students majoring in agriculture an opportunity to link classroom learning and campus leadership experiences with professional work experience. Interns will gain hands-on work experience while exploring a career in Extension. Interns will study, observe, and participate in a county Extension program under the direction and supervision of experienced Extension specialists in campus departmental internships and with Extension agents in county-based internships.
Deadline: February 29, 2024
Location: Knoxville UTIA Campus unless otherwise indicated
Responsibilities include:
- Varies by position – See individual position descriptions posted below.
Pay:
$6,840 (gross) for the 10-week internship is provided for each intern. Housing or housing allowance is not provided.
Application Requirements:
- Varies by position – See individual position descriptions posted below.
How to apply:
- Complete online application.
- Attach resume to online application.
- Attach transcript (official or unofficial) to online application.
- Download and complete addendum form. This form must be completed and attached to your online application packet in order for your application to be considered complete.
Position Descriptions – More coming soon!
| Department/Location | Responsibilities | Deadline | Position Description and Application Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Science Department Knoxville Campus | Aid in conducting applied research, including nutrition assessments, on-farm evaluation of equine body condition and body weight, and carcass composting and skeleton recovery Develop content for UTHorse, Equine Program social media accounts, and press releases to improve program visibility Write and edit equine Extension publications and infographics Assist with planning and implementation of the State 4-H Horse Judging Contest, Communications Contest, and Horse Show Assist with farm visits, diet assessment, ration formulation, and other needs as requested by County Extension Agents Aid in teaching and judging components of 4-H Academic Conference and 4-H Roundup Assist with planning and preparation for the Southern Regional 4-H Horse Championships Provide support as needed for adult and youth Extension events and projects | Feb. 29 | X2410-TN-Extension-Internship-ANR-CED-Animal-Science-1Download Apply Here |
| Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications (ALEC) Department Knoxville Campus | Intern will work directly with the Extension Teaching & Learning Specialist for UT Extension to develop curriculum for youth related agriculture and natural resources projects. This process will include: Brainstorming developmentally appropriate educational activities for grant funded projects and youth-based Extension programs Creation of print and digital educational materials Collaborating with state-wide Extension Specialists, county Extension agents, and other subject matter experts | Feb. 29 | X2411-TN-Extension-Internship-ANR-CED-ALEC-1Download Apply Here |
| Plant Sciences Knoxville Campus | Create a beef and forage statistical summary for Tennessee Create a “test-your-hay” campaign to educate on the importance of knowing forage quality Learn about the forage testing process in the laboratory Provide support with online education to include infographics for use on social media platforms and creation of materials to accompany this effort Aid in the development of various teaching hands-on materials and presentations Will assist with Live.Stock – the UT Beef and Forage Center’s YouTube/Podcast Assist with farm visits accompanying the forage specialist with hands-on experience interacting with producers in our state Travel to field days and events will be included in the summer experience | Feb. 29 | X2412-TN-Extension-Internship-ARN-Plant-Sciences-1Download Apply Here |
| Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science Department Knoxville Campus | Support a Sustainable Urban Farms program funded through the US Environmental Protection Agency and the National Association of State Agriculture Departments. This objective of the program is to create a hybrid (online and in-person) training program for urban producers related to protecting soil health and water quality through on farm conservation practices that ultimately reduce nutrient pollution in waterways. This internship will involve traveling, field work, data collection, data analysis, and public speaking. | Feb. 29 | X2415-TN-Extension-Internship-ANR-BESS-1Download Apply Here |
| Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science Department Knoxville Campus | This internship will assist in the coordination and delivery of the Tennessee Master Row Crop certification program. This program seeks to improve the profitability and sustainability of Tennessee row crop farming operations through agronomic, environmental, and economic education delivered by UT Extension specialists and agents. From fundamental to cutting edge research-based information, training module topics are delivered through both traditional face-to-face meetings as well as an option to complete credit hours virtually through a series of online videos and quizzes. The intern will assist the coordinator by: Supporting the Tennessee Master Row Crop certificate program, coordinated and delivered by UT Extension Performing data entry and analysis using spreadsheets and other digital tools Assist in developing education products, including storymaps and Extension publications for targeted clientele audiences Providing support to county programs, including youth STEM education programs, as necessary Developing presentations and reports as required by the internship along with assisting in development of other educational materials related to ongoing projects | Feb. 29 | X2419-TN-Extension-Internship-ANR-CED-BESSDownload Apply Here |
| Plant Sciences Knoxville Campus | This internship will focus on Extension horticulture trials and outreach efforts that will serve stakeholders across Tennessee. Work will usually take place at the UTIA campus as well as East Tennessee Research and Education Centers near Knoxville, specifically the Organic Crops Unit. 1) Assist in planting and management of the first year of a cut flower trial that will support small-scale Tennessee growers Plant and manage warm season cut flower crops and help implement production studies, such as fertility and pest/disease management. Time may also be spent in Extension outreach related to cut flowers. 2) Management of Tennessee home garden variety trial plots These trial plots are designed to provide variety selection and cultivation information for gardeners across Tennessee and augment citizen science trials. Work will involve planting, managing, and harvesting plots to support data collection along with leading a new container vegetable trial in 2024. Time may also be spent in Extension outreach related to garden vegetables and urban foods. | Feb. 29 | X2416-TN-Extension-Internship-ANR-Plant-ScienceDownload Apply Here |
| Soil, Plant and Pest Center Knoxville Campus | Learn about abiotic and biotic disorders in plants. Aid in lab routine tasks associated with diagnoses plant disease samples. Aid in the identification of plant diseases and pests. Aid in development of plant diagnostic lab work instructions. Aid in preparing clear, accurate, and concise diagnostic reports, including management recommendations. Communicate with sample provider, county agents, and specialist either verbally or in writing. Assist with social media for the Soil, Plant and Pest Center. Assist with entomology and plant pathology in-service training. Provide support with teaching hands-on materials for the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology. | Feb. 29 | X2417-TN-Extension-Internship-ANR-CED-SPPC-1Download Apply Here |
| School of Natural Resources; Biosystems Engineering and Soil Sciences; and Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communication Knoxville Campus | The summer intern will assist graduate students in the following roles: ● Coordinate and implement safe, interactive, and educational community workshops relating to riparian planting, invasive removal, and stream ecosystem health for students and adults of various ages and backgrounds. ● Record and track participant attendance and experience metrics to improve future programming. ● Develop and distribute program marketing materials via social media platforms, newsletters, and community contacts to expand future programs. ● Coordinate and train volunteer monitoring efforts for established buffers and no-mow zones. ● Aid in data collection, organization and analysis, including riparian vegetation surveys and periodic stream indicator collection. | Feb. 29 | X2418-TN-Extension-Internship-ANR-CED-School-of-Natural-Resources-1Download Apply Here |
Contact
For more information, please contact Dr. Andrea Ludwig or Ashley Mike.
Tennessee State University Minority Internships
The internship provides students from historically underrepresented racial and ethnic groups an opportunity to link classroom learning and campus leadership experiences with professional work experience. Interns will gain hands-on work experience while exploring a career in Extension. Interns will study, observe, and participate in a county Extension program under the direction and supervision of experienced Extension Agents.
Deadline: TBD
Location: Flexible. Applicants will identify their top 3 preferred counties in the application addendum, which will be considered in placement.
Responsibilities include:
- Plan, prepare, and implement research-based educational programs in Extension subject matter areas (agriculture, family & consumer sciences, and 4-H Youth Development), under the supervision of an Extension Agent.
- Complete an internship e-portfolio and an educational project.
- Present a report of the internship experience at the end of the program.
- This position requires travel connected with official duties within the assigned county and participation in occasional out-of-county events.
- This position requires participation in some evening and weekend events that occur outside of normal business hours.
Application Requirements:
- Must be a junior or senior enrolled in a college of agriculture, family & consumer sciences, education, or closely related field. Preference given to students presently enrolled at TSU.
- Must have completed approximately 60 credit hours of required coursework for a Bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher.
- Should be considering Extension as a future employment option.
- Must be available full-time during the internship period.
- Must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the assigned county.
- Must have reliable transportation to and from work.
- While all eligible applicants will be considered, preference will be given to undergraduate students presently enrolled at TSU.
How to apply:
- Download and complete application (coming soon).
- Attach resume.
- Attach transcript (official or unofficial) .
- Email completed application to Anthony Tuggle.
Contact
Altria Internship Program
This internship will provide field-training opportunities for undergraduate and/or graduate students interested in agricultural Extension work and activities. This internship program selects counties where tobacco constitutes an important source of agricultural income.
Deadline: Feb. 29, 2024
Location: Varies
Responsibilities include:
- Interns are expected to participate in all aspects of a county agricultural Extension program including field visits, field days, and other Extension events.
- Interns will also be required to participate in an IPM program with one or more tobacco producers, involving weekly scouting of fields for pests and production problems.
- Must present a written and oral report of the project accomplishments and training experience at the end of the internship in early August.
- This position requires travel connected with official duties within the assigned county and participation in occasional out-of-county events.
- This position requires participation in some evening and weekend events that occur outside of normal business hours.
Pay:
$6,840 (gross) for the 10-week internship is provided for each intern. Housing or housing allowance is not provided.
Application Requirements:
- Candidate must be enrolled in a college of agriculture, natural resources, environmental science or closely related major.
- Preference will be given to students presently enrolled at the University of Tennessee, Tennessee State University, any other university or college in Tennessee, or to a student resident of Tennessee enrolled elsewhere. The student should also have at least one more semester to complete after the summer internship has ended. Preference will also be given to those with Extension experience (i.e. former 4-H member, etc.). However, all eligible applicants will be considered
- Must reside in, or live within a reasonable commuting distance of the assigned county.
- Must be available full-time during the internship period.
- Must have own transportation to and from work.
How to apply:
- Download and complete addendum form. This form must be completed and attached to your online application packet in order for your application to be considered complete.
- Attach resume.
- Attach cover letter.
- Attach transcript (official or unofficial).
- Email complete application to Dr. Mitchell Richmond at mitchell.richmond@utk.edu.
Contact
