Top 15 Best High School Internships in Delaware 2026

Contents

Introduction: Delaware’s Hidden Corporate Powerhouse

Delaware may be America’s second-smallest state, but it punches far above its weight in business and opportunity. As home to more than 1.6 million corporations including over 65% of Fortune 500 companies, internships for high school students in Delaware provide exceptional access to corporate headquarters, chemical innovation, healthcare systems, government operations, and financial services concentrated in a compact, accessible geography. From working with cutting-edge materials science at DuPont’s Wilmington headquarters to supporting public health initiatives through the Delaware Academy of Medicine, engaging with federal court operations in the District of Delaware, or developing professional skills through the state’s Future Leaders Internship Initiative (FLii), Delaware’s small size creates surprising advantages for ambitious students.

The First State’s strategic location—positioned between Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington DC—combines major metropolitan resources with Delaware’s business-friendly environment, creating unique career pathways in corporate law, chemical engineering, healthcare, finance, and government. Wilmington’s concentration of credit card operations (including major banks), Dover’s state government complex, and Newark’s University of Delaware research infrastructure provide diverse opportunities within a 30-mile radius.

15 Exceptional High School Internships in Delaware 2026

1. Future Leaders Internship Initiative (FLii)

Organization: Delaware Department of State
Description: Comprehensive summer program providing professional development and real-world experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) through state government placements. Students work across Delaware state agencies including technology services, environmental programs, public health, economic development, arts and cultural affairs, and administrative operations. Program includes mentorship, career workshops, networking events, and exposure to government operations.
Eligibility: High school students (all grades) in Delaware, focus on high-potential students interested in STEAM careers
Duration: 6-8 weeks summer
Compensation: Paid stipend
Deadline: Typically March-April for summer (check annually)
Apply: Delaware FLii Program

2. U.S. District Court of Delaware High School Fellowship Program

Organization: United States District Court – District of Delaware
Description: Prestigious federal court internship providing behind-the-scenes access to federal judicial system. Students work with judges, clerks, and court staff on legal research, courtroom observation, case file management, and court operations. Fellows attend trials, mediations, naturalization ceremonies, and administrative proceedings while learning about civil procedure, criminal justice, bankruptcy law, and patent litigation (Delaware is major patent litigation venue).
Eligibility: Current sophomores and juniors who will be juniors/seniors in 2025-2026 school year, New Castle County Delaware high schools, U.S. citizenship or Green Card required
Duration: Academic year program (approximately 10 months)
Compensation: Unpaid (school credit available)
Deadline: Spring 2026 (typically April-May) for Fall 2026 start
Apply: Mail or email application, transcript, and recommendation letter(s) to Chief Judge listed on District of Delaware website

3. Delaware Academy of Medicine Student Internships

Organization: Delaware Academy of Medicine / Delaware Public Health Association
Description: Public health internships providing learners unique opportunities to discover public health’s role in Delaware communities. Students work on health education, disease prevention programs, health policy research, community health assessments, health equity initiatives, and public health communications. Hands-on experience with real public health challenges affecting Delaware populations.
Eligibility: High school students (and college students), must be enrolled in academic institution
Duration: Fall 2025, Spring 2026, or Summer 2026 sessions
Compensation: Unpaid internship (academic credit arrangements possible)
Deadline: Spring 2026 applications open November 1, 2025
Apply: Delaware Academy of Medicine Internships

4. DuPont Summer Internship & Co-Op Program

Organization: DuPont – Wilmington Headquarters
Description: Engineering and science internships at global materials science and specialty products company. Opportunities span chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, materials science, R&D laboratories, process engineering, and manufacturing operations. Interns work on real industrial projects involving advanced materials, electronics, water treatment, safety products, and sustainable solutions. Most positions target college students but exceptional high school seniors with strong STEM backgrounds occasionally considered.
Eligibility: Primarily college students; high school seniors with exceptional STEM credentials (3.5+ GPA), AP coursework, research experience may apply
Duration: 10-12 weeks summer internship
Compensation: Competitive hourly wage ($20-28/hour typical for interns)
Deadline: Applications open fall; rolling review through winter
Apply: DuPont Careers – Internships

5. Delaware Health Sciences Alliance (DHSA) Medical Assistant Experience

Organization: Westside Family Healthcare / DHSA
Description: Clinical rotation program providing hands-on medical assistant training with experienced mentors. Students receive detailed schedules ensuring maximum learning, work alongside 5+ year veteran medical assistants, gain practical clinical skills including patient interaction, vital signs, medical records, exam room preparation, and healthcare delivery systems. Insight into primary care, family medicine, and community health careers.
Eligibility: High school students interested in healthcare careers, Delaware area
Duration: Clinical rotation schedule (varies by program)
Compensation: Typically unpaid educational experience
Deadline: Contact DHSA for current cycle dates
Apply: DHSA High School Opportunities

6. Delaware Mini-Medical School

Organization: Delaware Health Sciences Alliance
Description: Free six-week educational series (not traditional internship but valuable career exposure) for individuals wanting deeper understanding of medicine. Attendees learn about trends in diagnosing and treating illness, general health topics, medical specialties, and healthcare innovations from practicing physicians and medical professionals. Excellent foundation before pursuing medical internships or applying to healthcare programs.
Eligibility: Open to high school students and community members interested in medicine
Duration: 6 weeks (evening sessions)
Compensation: Free program
Deadline: Register before series begins (offered periodically)
Apply: DHSA Programs

7. Delaware State Government Agency Internships

Organization: Various Delaware State Agencies
Description: Department-specific internships across Delaware state government including Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO), Department of Technology and Information (DTI), and Delaware Division of the Arts. Opportunities span environmental science, public health, business development, IT systems, cultural programming, and public administration.
Eligibility: High school and college students, Delaware residents preferred
Duration: Summer or semester placements
Compensation: Many paid positions available
Deadline: Varies by department; typically post winter/spring for summer
Apply: Individual department websites or Delaware State Jobs Portal

8. Christiana Care Health System Student Programs

Organization: Christiana Care – Delaware’s largest hospital system
Description: Healthcare exploration opportunities including volunteer programs, clinical observation, and occasional internship positions for high school students. Exposure to hospital operations, patient care, medical technology, health administration, and clinical specialties. Programs at Christiana Hospital (Newark) and Wilmington Hospital campuses.
Eligibility: High school students ages 14-18 (varies by program), background checks required
Duration: Summer programs or ongoing volunteer schedules
Compensation: Primarily volunteer with some paid positions
Deadline: Winter/spring for summer programs
Apply: Christiana Care Volunteer Services or call volunteer services

9. Nemours Children’s Health Volunteer & Internship Programs

Organization: Nemours Children’s Hospital – Delaware
Description: Pediatric healthcare exposure through volunteer programs and select internships. Opportunities supporting child life services, patient activities, family support, health education, and hospital operations. Learn about pediatric medicine, child development, family-centered care, and children’s hospital systems.
Eligibility: Ages 14-18 for teen volunteer programs; 16+ for some internship positions
Duration: Ongoing volunteer commitments or structured summer programs
Compensation: Primarily volunteer; occasional paid positions
Deadline: Application periods open seasonally
Apply: Nemours Delaware volunteer services

10. University of Delaware Research Experiences

Organization: University of Delaware – Various Departments
Description: Limited high school research opportunities working with UD faculty on scientific research projects. Areas include chemistry, biology, environmental science, engineering, computer science, and physics. Students contribute to laboratory research, data collection, analysis, and presentations. Competitive positions prioritizing local high school students with strong academics.
Eligibility: High school students (typically juniors/seniors), strong STEM background, 3.5+ GPA preferred
Duration: Summer research (6-10 weeks) or academic year part-time
Compensation: Some positions paid; others volunteer or for academic credit
Deadline: Winter/early spring for summer positions
Apply: Contact individual UD departments or professors directly with research interests

11. Delaware State University Career Services Internships

Organization: Delaware State University Office of Career Services
Description: DSU coordinates internships with Delaware employers for high school and college students. Placements span business, education, healthcare, agriculture, STEM, and public service. DSU’s Office of Career Services/Pathways connects students to employers throughout Delaware, particularly in Dover and Sussex County regions underserved by Wilmington-area opportunities.
Eligibility: High school students considering DSU or interested in Dover-area opportunities
Duration: Summer or semester internships
Compensation: Varies by employer
Deadline: Rolling opportunities
Apply: DSU Career Services

12. Delaware Division of the Arts Internships

Organization: Delaware Division of the Arts
Description: Arts administration, cultural programming, and arts education internships supporting Delaware’s state arts agency. Work on grant programs, artist fellowships, community arts initiatives, arts education partnerships, public art projects, and cultural policy development. Exposure to nonprofit arts management and public cultural policy.
Eligibility: High school and college students interested in arts management, cultural policy
Duration: Summer or semester schedules
Compensation: Stipend typically provided
Deadline: Posted seasonally
Apply: Delaware Division of the Arts or through state government employment portal

13. Delaware Museum of Natural History Youth Programs

Organization: Delaware Museum of Natural History – Wilmington
Description: Museum education, collections, and visitor services opportunities for teens. Activities include exhibit interpretation, educational programming support, special events, collection care, and museum operations. Learn natural history, museum studies, informal education, and public engagement in Delaware’s premier natural history museum.
Eligibility: High school students ages 14-18
Duration: Summer programs or academic year volunteer positions
Compensation: Primarily volunteer with potential for paid positions
Deadline: Spring for summer programs
Apply: Delaware Museum of Natural History volunteer coordinator

14. Wilmington Library Teen Programs & Internships

Organization: Wilmington Public Library
Description: Library services, technology assistance, literacy programming, and community outreach positions for teens. Support children’s programs, technology help desk, homework assistance, collection organization, and special library initiatives. Develop customer service, technology, and educational skills in a public library setting.
Eligibility: Teen volunteers and select paid positions, ages 14-18
Duration: Academic year or summer schedules, part-time hours
Compensation: Mix of volunteer and paid positions ($12-15/hour for paid roles)
Deadline: Rolling applications
Apply: Visit Wilmington Public Library or New Castle County Libraries

15. Delaware Nature Society Environmental Education Internships

Organization: Delaware Nature Society
Description: Environmental education and conservation internships at Ashland Nature Center and other Delaware Nature Society properties. Work on summer camps, school programs, trail maintenance, wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, and environmental education programming. Hands-on conservation work and environmental interpretation.
Eligibility: High school students ages 16+ interested in environmental science and education
Duration: Summer intensive or semester schedules
Compensation: Paid positions and volunteer opportunities available
Deadline: Winter/early spring for summer positions
Apply: Delaware Nature Society employment/volunteer pages

How to Apply for Delaware Internships

Understanding Delaware’s Compact Advantage

Delaware’s small geographic size creates unique advantages: you can reach any opportunity in the state within 45 minutes. Wilmington (north), Dover (central), and Rehoboth/Lewes (south) form Delaware’s three main regions, each offering distinct opportunities. Wilmington concentrates corporate headquarters and healthcare systems; Dover hosts state government; southern Delaware provides resort/tourism and agricultural opportunities.

For students near state borders, complement Delaware applications with high school internships in Maryland or high school internships in Jersey City accessible from northern Delaware. Pennsylvania students near Wilmington can access many Delaware programs.

Application Timeline

November 2025 – January 2026: DuPont engineering applications open with rolling review. Delaware Academy of Medicine spring 2026 applications open November 1. Research University of Delaware opportunities and contact professors.

February – March 2026: Peak season begins. FLii applications typically open March-April. Federal Court fellowship applications due April-May for fall start. Delaware state agency summer positions posted. Delaware Nature Society and museum programs announce summer schedules.

April – May 2026: Final application push. DHSA programs, Christiana Care summer volunteers, and library positions finalize schedules. Most positions filled by June 1.

Required Documents

Prepare: Resume (one page, academic focus), Cover letter (customized per program, 300-400 words), Transcripts (unofficial showing GPA), Recommendations (2-3 letters from teachers/counselors), Work permit (Delaware requires youth employment certificates for under-18 workers, obtain through school).

DuPont and technical positions may require STEM portfolios. Federal Court fellowship needs formal application form plus multiple recommendation letters. Delaware Academy of Medicine conducts in-person interviews.

Application Methods

Online portals: DuPont careers website, Delaware state government jobs portal, University of Delaware department websites. Direct contact: Federal Court fellowship via mail/email to Chief Judge, small nonprofits via email, museum/library volunteer coordinators via phone/website forms. Through schools: FLii and some state programs coordinate through Delaware high schools.

Strengthening Applications

Emphasize Delaware connection: State programs value local commitment. Highlight Delaware roots, understanding of state’s business leadership (corporate headquarters), and desire to contribute to First State’s continued success.

Industry alignment: For DuPont/chemical engineering, show strong STEM background. For federal court, demonstrate interest in law and strong writing skills. For healthcare, highlight biology coursework and patient interaction interests. For state government, show civic engagement.

Small state advantages: Emphasize how Delaware’s size allows meaningful contributions. In small organizations, interns often handle significant responsibilities unavailable at larger institutions.

Quantify achievements: Use specific numbers demonstrating impact, skills, and commitment.

Interview Preparation

Delaware interviews typically more informal than major metro areas but still professional. Research organization thoroughly—for DuPont, know their products and sustainability initiatives; for Federal Court, understand court’s patent litigation specialty; for state agencies, know Governor’s priorities. Business professional attire for corporate (DuPont) and federal positions; business casual for nonprofits and healthcare. Arrive early—Delaware traffic light but parking can be tricky in Wilmington. Local knowledge—mention Delaware-specific factors showing genuine interest in First State opportunities.

Students considering nearby metro opportunities should explore high school internships in Washington DC or high school internships in Massachusetts.

Transportation Considerations

Personal vehicle: Most Delaware opportunities accessible by car within 30-45 minutes statewide. Wilmington has most concentrated opportunities. DART First State: Delaware public transit connects major centers but limited compared to larger cities—car recommended for reliability. Wilmington Train Station: Accessible via Amtrak/SEPTA for those commuting from Pennsylvania/Maryland. University of Delaware shuttle: UD interns may access campus shuttle system.

Resources

Delaware State Jobs Portal – Agency positions
Delaware Chamber of Commerce – “Intern Delaware” initiative
University of Delaware Career Services – Research connections
Delaware Public Schools Career & Technical Education offices
Wilmington Chamber of Commerce – Business internships

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Delaware high school internships paid?

Many Delaware internships offer compensation including FLii state program (paid stipend), DuPont engineering ($20-28/hour for qualified students), some state agency positions (varies), paid library roles ($12-15/hour), and Delaware Nature Society positions, while Federal Court fellowship, Delaware Academy of Medicine, healthcare volunteer programs, and museum opportunities are typically unpaid but qualify for school credit.

When should I apply for summer 2026 internships in Delaware?

Apply November 2025 through April 2026 with Delaware Academy of Medicine opening November 1 for spring 2026, DuPont accepting rolling applications starting fall, FLii typically opening March-April, Federal Court fellowship due April-May for fall start, and most healthcare, museum, and nonprofit positions posting February-April for summer.

Do I need work experience to get a Delaware internship?

No, entry-level programs like FLii, Delaware state agencies, healthcare volunteer positions, museum programs, and library opportunities welcome first-time workers with training provided, though highly competitive positions like DuPont engineering and University of Delaware research strongly prefer students with exceptional academics (3.5+ GPA), relevant coursework, and demonstrated interest through school activities or personal projects.

What industries dominate Delaware’s high school internship opportunities?

Delaware’s economy reflects its status as corporate headquarters state with opportunities concentrated in corporate/business (DuPont, credit card companies, corporate law), government/public service (state agencies, Federal Court, FLii program), healthcare (Christiana Care, Nemours, Delaware Academy of Medicine), higher education research (University of Delaware), and environmental/cultural organizations (museums, nature centers), with limited retail or hospitality compared to tourism-heavy states.

How competitive are Delaware internship programs?

Competition varies with Federal Court fellowship highly selective accepting handful of students from New Castle County schools, DuPont engineering positions very competitive requiring exceptional STEM credentials, University of Delaware research moderately competitive (limited positions), while FLii, Delaware Academy of Medicine, healthcare volunteer programs, and cultural organizations are accessible to most qualified applicants who apply early with solid applications.

Can students from Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey apply?

Yes, most Delaware programs welcome nearby state residents with many Wilmington-area employers drawing from southeastern Pennsylvania and northeastern Maryland populations due to Delaware’s border location, though some state-funded programs like FLii may prioritize Delaware residents, federal positions (District Court) welcome regional applicants, and corporate opportunities (DuPont) recruit without geographic restrictions.

Does Delaware’s small size limit opportunities?

No, Delaware’s concentration of Fortune 500 headquarters, federal courts, research institutions, and state government actually creates exceptional per-capita opportunities with the First State offering easier access to senior leadership, more meaningful project responsibility, and stronger mentorship than students might receive at larger institutions where interns risk being overlooked among hundreds of participants.

Can I earn school credit for Delaware internships?

Yes, Delaware high schools and private schools typically offer academic credit through work-based learning programs requiring counselor pre-approval, minimum hours (typically 120-180 for full credit), reflection journals, supervisor evaluations, and sometimes final presentations, with both paid and unpaid internships qualifying—contact your school’s CTE coordinator or work-based learning specialist early in application process.

How does Delaware compare to nearby DC or Philadelphia for internships?

Delaware offers more accessible, less competitive alternatives to DC and Philadelphia with corporate positions (DuPont) matching Philadelphia opportunities, state government providing similar experiences to federal agencies but easier entry, and Delaware’s size allowing stronger mentorship relationships, though students seeking specific industries (media, entertainment, international policy) should complement Delaware with high school internships in DC or Pennsylvania opportunities.

What makes Delaware unique for internships?

Delaware’s status as incorporation capital for 65% of Fortune 500 companies creates unusual access to corporate headquarters and legal/business operations, while small state size enables direct interaction with senior leaders and meaningful project responsibilities typically unavailable to high school interns in larger states, plus strategic mid-Atlantic location provides options spanning Philadelphia, Baltimore, and DC metros within 90 minutes.

Explore More Internship Opportunities

Expand Beyond the First State

Delaware students should consider complementary regional opportunities:

Mid-Atlantic Neighbors:

High School Internships in Maryland – Federal agencies, biotech
High School Internships in Washington, DC – Government and policy
High School Internships in Jersey City, NJ – NYC metro access

Major Metropolitan Centers:

High School Internships in NYC – Finance and media
High School Internships in Los Angeles – Entertainment and tech
High School Internships in Miami – International business

Growing Regional Hubs:

High School Internships in Denver – Aerospace and energy
High School Internships in Kansas City – Midwest business
High School Internships in Minneapolis – Corporate headquarters

Southern Growth Markets:

High School Internships in Augusta, GA – Cybersecurity hub
High School Internships in Alpharetta, GA – Technology center

Statewide Programs:

High School Internships in Texas – Energy capital
High School Internships in Florida – Tourism and aerospace
High School Internships in Massachusetts – Biotech and education
High School Internships in Minnesota – Corporate opportunities

Texas Markets:

High School Internships in Katy, TX – Houston suburb access

Midwest Industrial:

High School Internships in Milwaukee, WI – Manufacturing and healthcare

Final Thoughts

Internships for high school students in Delaware leverage the First State’s unique position as America’s corporate headquarters capital, offering unparalleled access to Fortune 500 leadership, cutting-edge chemical engineering, federal court operations, and comprehensive state government experience—all within a compact, accessible geography. From DuPont’s materials science innovation to the Federal Court’s prestigious fellowship program and FLii’s government pathways, Delaware delivers opportunities matching major metros but with stronger mentorship and greater responsibility.

Start your application process now by reviewing programs above, marking deadlines (November-April application season), and applying to 8-10 opportunities across corporate, government, healthcare, and cultural sectors. Delaware’s small size becomes your advantage—leverage it to build relationships, gain meaningful experience, and launch your professional journey from America’s First State.

Questions? Contact program coordinators using links above or connect with your school’s career services office for Delaware-specific internship guidance.