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A Unique Internship Awaits
Explore the Possibilities with an Internship at the Zoo!
The Zoo’s Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for college students to become actively involved in the Zoo’s conservation, research, education and recreation efforts. Interns can enhance their knowledge and experience in various administrative, animal care and education roles.
Interns serve 20-40 hours per week for 12 consecutive weeks. We are currently in a transition period for paid and unpaid internships. Please see specific classifications under the Summer 2025 Internships dropdown. The Zoo can provide information to assist with your housing and transportation search. Participants in the Intern Program must be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program; we are unable to accept recent graduates.
Intern Application Deadlines
Summer 2025 applications closed March 17
Applications are available approximately two months prior to the deadline listed above. Please complete the appropriate application for the session in which you are interested in participating. Although it is recommended that all materials be emailed, faxed or postal mailed together, letters of recommendation may be sent directly to the Zoo from their authors. Contact information for where to send completed packets and letters of recommendation is listed on the application form.
Questions? Contact us using the form below or at 317-630-2041.
Externships & Apprenticeships:
The Life Sciences Apprenticeship is the pre-requisite phase for the Keeper Trainee Program. The Apprentice will be rotated through many departments, including Animal Care areas, the Veterinary Hospital and Commissary, to closely observe selected employees performing their day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. Over the course of the apprenticeship, students will learn to develop an understanding of basic skills needed to care for a variety of animals and plant species, including data collecting, medical treatments/procedures, food safety, diet development, enrichment training and more. This position will work approximately 40 hours per week for 10–12 weeks.
PRECEPTORSHIP OR OFF-CAMPUS BLOCK
Veterinary students will observe and assist the veterinarians with clinical cases, treatments, immobilizations, surgeries, necropsies, and medical record keeping. The student will be required to complete and present a project during the externship. Externships are 40 hours per week for 4-6 weeks as per fourth year vet student requirements and are unpaid. Arrangements for externships must be made far in advance. This opportunity is available year round for enrolled vet students; vet techs do not qualify for the externship.
Positions are filled through April 2025.
Veterinary technician students will observe and assist our vet techs with all aspects of animal diagnostics and treatments, in-house lab work, hospital maintenance and record keeping. Externships are 40 hours per week for 4-6 weeks as per school requirements and are unpaid. Arrangements for externships must be made in advance. This opportunity is available year round for enrolled veterinary technician students.