15 Top Best High School Internships in Houston, TX 2026

Last Updated: October 1, 2025 | Author: Career Development Team

Contents

Introduction

Discovering internships for high school students in Houston opens doors to exceptional career exploration opportunities in the nation’s fourth-largest city. Houston’s thriving economy—anchored by the energy sector, Texas Medical Center (the world’s largest medical complex), NASA’s Johnson Space Center, and a rapidly growing tech scene—creates a unique landscape for ambitious teens seeking real-world professional experience.

Whether you’re passionate about space exploration, healthcare innovation, engineering, business, or the arts, Houston companies and organizations offer diverse paid internships and summer jobs for teens designed specifically for high school students. These programs not only strengthen college applications but also help you build valuable networks, develop professional skills, and clarify your career direction before making major educational decisions.

Top High School Internship Programs in Houston 2025-2026

Below are 15 verified and current internship opportunities for high school students in Houston. All information has been confirmed for the 2025-2026 application cycle, including updated deadlines and program details.

1. High School Emerging Researcher Experience

Organization: Houston Methodist Hospital
Description: Prestigious translational research internship at one of the nation’s top hospitals. Students work alongside researchers on cutting-edge medical studies in laboratories and clinical settings.
Eligibility: Grades 11-12 (juniors & seniors), 3.0+ GPA
Duration: 8 weeks (June-July)
Compensation: Paid – $15/hour
Deadline: January 30, 2026
Apply: Apply Here

2. NASA Johnson Space Center Internship

Organization: NASA – Johnson Space Center
Description: Work directly with NASA engineers, scientists, and astronauts on space exploration projects. Opportunities in engineering, IT, communications, and mission operations.
Eligibility: Grades 11-12, U.S. citizenship required, 3.0+ GPA
Duration: 10 weeks (Summer)
Compensation: Paid – $16-18/hour
Deadline: March 1, 2026
Apply: Apply Here

3. City of Houston Summer Jobs Program

Organization: City of Houston – Multiple Departments
Description: Government internships across city departments including parks, public works, technology, health, and administration. Learn about municipal operations and public service.
Eligibility: Ages 16-24, Houston residents
Duration: 8 weeks (Summer), 32 hrs/week
Compensation: Paid – $12/hour
Deadline: April 15, 2026
Apply: Apply Here

4. MD Anderson Summer Experience

Organization: MD Anderson Cancer Center
Description: Healthcare and cancer research internship at the world’s leading cancer center. Students assist with laboratory research, patient education, and clinical operations.
Eligibility: Grades 11-12, 3.5+ GPA, science interest
Duration: 6 weeks (June-July)
Compensation: Paid – $17/hour
Deadline: February 15, 2026
Apply: Visit MD Anderson Website

5. Shell Oil Company STEM Internship

Organization: Shell Oil Company
Description: Energy industry internship focusing on engineering, environmental science, and technology. Gain exposure to renewable energy initiatives and traditional oil/gas operations.
Eligibility: Grades 11-12, Houston area residents, 3.0+ GPA
Duration: 8 weeks (Summer)
Compensation: Paid – $18/hour
Deadline: February 28, 2026
Apply: Contact Shell Recruiting

6. Houston Museum of Natural Science Youth Programs

Organization: Houston Museum of Natural Science
Description: Museum education and collections management internship. Work with paleontology, astronomy, energy exhibits, and educational programming for visitors.
Eligibility: Grades 10-12
Duration: 6-8 weeks (Summer)
Compensation: Paid – $14/hour
Deadline: March 31, 2026
Apply: Visit Museum Website

7. Texas Children’s Hospital Teen Volunteer Program

Organization: Texas Children’s Hospital
Description: Healthcare exposure program at one of America’s best children’s hospitals. Assist with patient activities, family support, administrative tasks, and clinical shadowing opportunities.
Eligibility: Ages 15-18, grades 10-12
Duration: Flexible (Year-round), 4 hrs/week minimum
Compensation: Unpaid (School credit available)
Deadline: Rolling admissions
Apply: Apply Here

8. JPMorgan Chase Financial Services Internship

Organization: JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Description: Banking and finance internship introducing students to corporate finance, investment banking, and financial technology. Includes mentorship and professional development workshops.
Eligibility: Grades 11-12, 3.0+ GPA
Duration: 6 weeks (Summer)
Compensation: Paid – $17/hour
Deadline: March 15, 2026
Apply: Contact Local Branch

9. Houston Ballet Academy Internship

Organization: Houston Ballet
Description: Arts administration and performing arts internship. Gain experience in marketing, production, costume design, and arts education at one of America’s leading ballet companies.
Eligibility: Grades 10-12, arts interest
Duration: 8 weeks (Summer)
Compensation: Stipend – $800 total
Deadline: April 1, 2026
Apply: Visit Ballet Website

10. Rice University Office of STEM Engagement

Organization: Rice University
Description: Academic research internship at a top-tier university. Students work in science, technology, engineering, or math labs under faculty mentorship conducting real research.
Eligibility: Grades 11-12, 3.5+ GPA, Houston area
Duration: 8 weeks (June-July)
Compensation: Paid – $16/hour
Deadline: January 15, 2026
Apply: Visit Rice Website

11. ConocoPhillips Energy Internship

Organization: ConocoPhillips
Description: Energy industry exploration covering petroleum engineering, geology, environmental compliance, and business operations in one of Houston’s major energy corporations.
Eligibility: Grades 11-12, 3.0+ GPA
Duration: 10 weeks (Summer)
Compensation: Paid – $19/hour
Deadline: February 1, 2026
Apply: Contact HR Department

12. Houston Zoo Conservation Internship

Organization: Houston Zoo
Description: Zoology and wildlife conservation internship. Work with animal care teams, conservation programs, and educational initiatives focused on saving wildlife and habitats.
Eligibility: Grades 10-12, ages 16+
Duration: 6 weeks (Summer)
Compensation: Paid – $13/hour
Deadline: March 1, 2026
Apply: Visit Zoo Website

13. 100 Black Men of Metropolitan Houston

Organization: 100 Black Men Organization
Description: Mentorship and professional development program connecting students with Black business leaders. Includes internship placement, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Eligibility: Grades 10-12, Houston area
Duration: 6-8 weeks (Summer)
Compensation: Paid – $15/hour
Deadline: April 1, 2026
Apply: Learn More

14. TxDOT Summer Internship Program

Organization: Texas Department of Transportation
Description: Engineering and transportation planning internship. Learn about infrastructure design, traffic engineering, environmental planning, and construction management.
Eligibility: Grades 11-12, Texas residents, 2.5+ GPA
Duration: 10 weeks (Summer)
Compensation: Paid – $14/hour
Deadline: April 1, 2026
Apply: Apply Here

15. DiverseWorks Art Space Internship

Organization: DiverseWorks
Description: Contemporary arts internship at Houston’s premier multidisciplinary arts organization. Gain experience in curation, exhibition design, arts education, and nonprofit management.
Eligibility: Grades 10-12
Duration: Spring/Summer/Fall (16 weeks or 10 weeks)
Compensation: Unpaid (Academic credit available)
Deadline: Varies by season
Apply: Visit Organization Website

How to Apply for Internships in Houston

Successfully securing internships for high school students in Houston requires strategic planning and professional presentation. Here’s your complete guide to navigating the application process.

Application Methods

Online Application Portals (Most Common)

The majority of Houston internship programs use centralized online systems where you’ll:

Create an account with an email and a password
Complete digital application forms with personal and academic information
Upload resume and cover letter as PDF files (usually required)
Answer essay questions or short-answer prompts about your interests and goals
Provide contact information for 2-3 references (teachers, counselors, employers)
Submit unofficial transcripts or report cards showing current GPA
Track application status through your portal dashboard

Programs using online portals: Houston Methodist, NASA, MD Anderson, Rice University, Shell, JPMorgan Chase, TxDOT

Through School Counselors and Teachers

Some programs partner directly with Houston-area high schools:

Meet with your school counselor in early fall to discuss internship goals
Request teacher recommendations well in advance (at least 3-4 weeks before deadlines)
Ask counselors to submit official transcripts or nominations
Coordinate academic credit approval through your school’s career and technical education (CTE) department
Obtain work permits through the school office (required for students under 16 in Texas)

Programs coordinating through schools: City of Houston Summer Jobs Program, 100 Black Men, and some museum programs.

Direct Contact via Email or Phone

Smaller organizations may prefer direct outreach:

Send a professional email to the internship coordinator with the subject line: “Summer 2026 Internship Application – [Your Name]”
Attach resume and cover letter as separate, clearly labeled PDF files
Include a brief introduction (3-4 sentences) in the email body
Follow up with a phone call after one week if no response
Be prepared to interview on short notice

Programs accepting direct contact: Houston Zoo, Houston Ballet, Houston Museum of Natural Science, DiverseWorks, and some smaller nonprofits

In-Person Applications

A few programs, especially at museums and cultural institutions, accept walk-in applications:

Visit during business hours (typically weekdays 9 am-5 pm)
Dress professionally (business casual minimum)
Bring printed copies of your resume and cover letter
Ask to speak with the volunteer coordinator or HR representative
Complete any required forms on-site
Request a business card for follow-up communication

Required Documents Checklist

Gather these materials before beginning applications:

□ Professional Resume – One page maximum, highlighting academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, leadership roles, and any prior work experience. For students in other major Texas cities, explore internships for high school students in Dallas or internships for high school students in Austin for additional opportunities.

□ Customized Cover Letter – Tailored to each specific program explaining your interest, qualifications, and career goals (250-400 words)

□ Official or Unofficial Transcript – Most programs accept unofficial copies showing current coursework and GPA; request from the school registrar or counselor

□ Reference Contact Information – Names, titles, email addresses, and phone numbers for 2-3 references who can speak to your character, work ethic, and abilities

□ Personal Identification – Government-issued ID or birth certificate proving age (required for paid positions)

□ Proof of Residency – Utility bill, lease agreement, or government document showing Houston or Texas residency (for programs with geographic requirements)

□ Work Permit – Texas requires employment certificates for workers under 16; obtain from the school counselor with parent’s signature and proof of age

□ Essays or Writing Samples – Some competitive programs request 300-500-word essays on topics like “Why do you want this internship?” or “Describe a challenge you’ve overcome.”

□ Letters of Recommendation – 1-2 letters from teachers, counselors, coaches, or employers (some programs require these; others make them optional)

Application Timeline for Houston Programs

September – October (Previous Year): Begin researching opportunities early. Review program requirements and start preparing application materials. Students interested in expanding their search should explore internships for high school students in San Antonio or statewide internships for high school students in Texas.

November – December: Finalize resume and cover letter templates. Request recommendation letters from teachers before winter break. Meet with school counselors to discuss internship plans and obtain transcripts. Research each organization’s mission and values to strengthen applications.

January (Application Season Opens) Critical early deadlines: Rice University (January 15), Houston Methodist (January 30). Submit applications as early as possible—many programs review on a rolling basis and fill positions before final deadlines.

February Major deadlines this month: ConocoPhillips (February 1), MD Anderson (February 15), Shell (February 28). Prepare for interviews as notifications begin arriving. Practice common interview questions with teachers or parents.

March Peak application season: NASA (March 1), Houston Zoo (March 1), JPMorgan Chase (March 15), Houston Museum of Natural Science (March 31). Complete all remaining applications. Send thank-you emails after interviews.

April Final spring deadlines: Houston Ballet (April 1), 100 Black Men (April 1), TxDOT (April 1), City of Houston (April 15). Receive acceptance notifications from most summer programs. Complete required paperwork, including background checks, tax forms (W-4), and emergency contacts.

May attend mandatory orientation sessions. Finalize summer schedules and transportation arrangements. Purchase or arrange professional attire. Connect with other accepted interns through social media or program communications.

June – August: Begin summer internships. Arrive on time, dress professionally, ask questions, take initiative, network with professionals, document accomplishments for resume updates, and maintain excellent communication with supervisors. Those exploring opportunities beyond Houston should consider internships for high school students in Phoenix or internships for high school students in San Diego.

Tips for Stronger Applications

Highlight Houston Connection Many programs prioritize local students. Emphasize your ties to Houston—mention your neighborhood, how long you’ve lived in the area, community involvement, or family connections to the city. This demonstrates genuine interest and long-term commitment.

Demonstrate Genuine Interest in the Field. Generic applications rarely succeed. Research each organization thoroughly and explain specifically why you’re interested in their mission. For healthcare programs, mention relevant coursework (biology, anatomy, health science). For NASA, discuss your passion for space exploration and STEM subjects. For arts programs, highlight creative experience and cultural engagement.

Quantify Your Accomplishments. Instead of “member of student government,” write “served as class treasurer, managing $3,000 budget.” Rather than “volunteered at food bank,” state “volunteered 120 hours sorting and distributing food to 500+ families.” Numbers make your experience tangible and memorable.

Address Gaps or Weaknesses Proactively If your GPA is slightly below the recommended minimum, explain extenuating circumstances and highlight improving trends. If you lack direct experience in a field, emphasize transferable skills from other activities. Honesty and self-awareness demonstrate maturity.

Apply Broadly and Strategically. Competition is intense for prestigious programs like NASA and Houston Methodist. Apply to 8-12 programs spanning “reach” (highly competitive), “target” (solid match), and “safety” (strong likelihood of acceptance) categories. This increases your odds significantly.

Tailor Each Application Never submit identical applications to multiple programs. Customize your cover letter for each opportunity, referencing specific programs, projects, or aspects that attract you. Generic applications are immediately obvious to reviewers.

Proofread Obsessively Spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, and typos suggest carelessness and lack of attention to detail. Have multiple people review your materials—parents, teachers, counselors, or friends with strong writing skills. Read everything aloud to catch errors you might miss when reading silently.

Interview Preparation

Many competitive Houston programs conduct interviews (in-person, phone, or video). Preparation is essential:

Research the Organization Thoroughly

Review the organization’s website, recent news articles, and social media
Understand their mission, values, and current projects or initiatives
Prepare specific examples of why you’re interested in their work
Demonstrate knowledge of Houston’s role in their industry (e.g., Houston as the “Energy Capital” for oil companies)

Practice Common Interview Questions

“Tell me about yourself” (keep to 60-90 seconds covering school, interests, goals)
“Why do you want this internship?” (be specific about the program, not generic)
“What are your strengths and weaknesses?” (choose relevant strengths; for weaknesses, show growth mindset)
“Describe a challenge you’ve overcome” (use STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result)
“Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” (show ambition but be realistic as a high school student)
“Tell me about a time you worked on a team” (emphasize collaboration and communication)

Prepare Thoughtful Questions to Ask Always have 2-3 questions ready. Strong examples include:

“What does a typical day look like for an intern in this program?”
“What are the most important skills successful interns develop?”
“How are interns mentored and supported throughout the program?”
“What opportunities exist for interns to present their work or collaborate with full-time staff?”

Avoid questions about compensation, schedule flexibility, or time off unless interviewers bring these topics up first.

Professional Appearance and Etiquette

Dress in business casual attire (no jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers)
Arrive 10-15 minutes early; for virtual interviews, log in 5 minutes early
Bring extra copies of your resume in a professional folder
Practice firm handshake and eye contact
Turn off phone completely (not just silent)
Send thank-you email within 24 hours referencing specific conversation points

For students considering coastal opportunities, research internships for high school students in San Francisco or internships for high school students in California for tech industry positions.

External Resources

U.S. Department of Labor – Youth Rules! Official guidance on child labor laws, work permits, and teen employment rights in Texas – youthrules.gov

Workforce Solutions Greater Houston Free career counseling, job search assistance, and skills training for Houston-area residents including high school students – wrksolutions.com

Texas Workforce Commission State employment resources, labor law information, and youth program listings – twc.texas.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there paid internships for high school students in Houston?

Yes, Houston offers numerous paid internship opportunities for high school students. Approximately 70% of structured programs in Houston provide monetary compensation, reflecting the city’s robust economy and competitive job market. Paid positions typically range from $12-19 per hour, with rates varying by industry and organization size. High-paying programs include ConocoPhillips ($19/hour), Shell Oil ($18/hour), NASA ($16-18/hour), MD Anderson ($17/hour), and JPMorgan Chase ($17/hour). Even entry-level city government positions through the City of Houston Summer Jobs Program pay $12/hour for 32 hours weekly. These paid internships not only provide valuable work experience but also help students save for college, support their families, or gain financial independence.

When should I apply for summer internships in Houston?

The optimal application window for summer internships for high school students in Houston runs from January through April, with most deadlines falling between February and March. However, preparation should begin much earlier. Start researching programs in September-October, finalize application materials in November-December, and submit applications in January-February for the best results. Early deadlines include Rice University (January 15) and Houston Methodist (January 30). Peak season occurs in February-March with programs like NASA (March 1), Shell (February 28), and MD Anderson (February 15). Late deadlines extend into April with the City of Houston (April 15) and several smaller programs. Some organizations, like Texas Children’s Hospital, accept rolling applications year-round. Applying early demonstrates enthusiasm and gives you an advantage before positions fill.

Do I need previous work experience to get an internship in Houston?

No, most Houston high school internship programs do not require previous work experience. These opportunities are specifically designed as entry points for students new to professional environments. Programs like Houston Methodist’s Emerging Researcher Experience, NASA internships, and City of Houston positions welcome first-time workers and provide comprehensive training and mentorship. What matters more than experience is demonstrating maturity, reliability, genuine interest in the field, and willingness to learn. Highlight transferable skills from school activities—leadership roles in clubs, teamwork in sports, responsibility in volunteer work, or time management balancing academics and extracurriculars. Strong academic performance (particularly relevant coursework), teacher recommendations, and well-prepared application materials outweigh lack of formal work history. Start with less competitive programs to gain initial experience, then leverage that for more selective opportunities.

What grade do you need to be in to apply for Houston internships?

Grade eligibility varies significantly by program. The most selective opportunities—including Houston Methodist, MD Anderson, NASA, Rice University, ConocoPhillips, Shell, and JPMorgan Chase—typically require students to be juniors or seniors (grades 11-12) at time of application. These programs assume greater academic maturity, more developed skills, and closer proximity to college decisions. However, numerous programs welcome sophomores (grade 10), including Houston Zoo, Houston Museum of Natural Science, 100 Black Men, Texas Children’s Hospital volunteer program, Houston Ballet, and DiverseWorks. A few programs like Texas Children’s and some museum positions accept freshmen (grade 9) for volunteer roles. Age requirements also matter—many paid positions require students to be at least 16 years old due to Texas labor laws, while volunteer programs may accept students as young as 14-15.

How competitive are Houston internship programs?

Competition levels vary dramatically. Highly prestigious programs like NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston Methodist Research, and MD Anderson typically accept only 10-20% of applicants due to limited positions (often 15-30 spots) and hundreds of applications from talented students across the Houston metro area. Rice University and corporate programs at Shell and ConocoPhillips are similarly selective, seeking students with exceptional academics (3.5+ GPA), relevant coursework, strong recommendations, and demonstrated passion for their fields. Moderately competitive programs like City of Houston Summer Jobs, Houston Zoo, and museum internships have acceptance rates around 30-40%. Less competitive opportunities including Texas Children’s volunteer program, some nonprofit organizations, and rolling admission programs accept most qualified applicants who meet basic requirements. Your best strategy is applying to a range of selectivity levels to maximize chances of securing at least one position.

Can I do an internship during the school year or only in summer?

Both options exist in Houston, though summer programs dominate. Approximately 80% of high school internship opportunities in Houston operate during summer (typically June through August) for 6-10 weeks, allowing students to commit substantial hours without compromising academics. However, school-year options include Texas Children’s Hospital volunteer program (flexible year-round schedule requiring minimum 4 hours weekly), DiverseWorks internships offered in spring, summer, and fall sessions (16 weeks for semester, 10 weeks for summer), and some corporate programs offering part-time positions during fall and spring semesters. School-year internships typically require 8-15 hours weekly, scheduled after school, evenings, or weekends. These positions work well for students wanting sustained experience, deeper skill development, and stronger professional relationships compared to shorter summer programs. Coordinate with your school counselor about schedule adjustments and potential academic credit.

What’s the difference between paid internships and volunteer programs?

Paid internships provide hourly wages or salaries (typically $12-19/hour in Houston) and are classified as formal employment. These positions require tax withholding (W-4 forms), work permits for students under 18, and adherence to Texas child labor laws. Paid internships often involve more substantial responsibilities, professional accountability, and expectations similar to entry-level jobs. They provide financial compensation alongside experience, making them ideal for students needing income or wanting to demonstrate self-sufficiency. Volunteer programs offer learning experiences without monetary payment but may provide academic credit through school partnerships, stipends (lump-sum payments like Houston Ballet’s $800 stipend), professional development workshops, networking opportunities, or strong letters of recommendation. Unpaid positions must primarily benefit students educationally under Fair Labor Standards Act regulations. Both types add value to college applications and build professional skills—choose based on your financial needs, schedule flexibility, and learning goals.

How do I balance an internship with summer plans or family obligations?

Communicate expectations clearly with both your family and potential employers before committing. Most Houston summer internships require 20-32 hours weekly commitment, Monday through Friday, during normal business hours (8am-5pm typically). Review program schedules during application process and discuss conflicts immediately if accepted. Some strategies for balancing commitments include: scheduling family vacations before or after internship dates (most programs run mid-June through late July/early August); negotiating slightly reduced hours if you have unavoidable obligations (some flexible programs accommodate 15-20 hours instead of full 32 hours); choosing part-time or flexible programs like Texas Children’s volunteer roles; or coordinating with siblings or family members for shared responsibilities. Employers appreciate honesty—if you have a previously planned family event, mention it during interviews. Most will work with you for 1-2 day conflicts within an 8-week program. Avoid over-committing; one quality internship is better than multiple rushed experiences.

What should I wear to my internship in Houston?

Dress code expectations vary by industry and organization type. Corporate/Business Settings (JPMorgan Chase, Shell, ConocoPhillips): Business casual is standard—dress pants or khakis (no jeans), collared shirts or blouses, closed-toe shoes (dress shoes or clean flats, no sneakers). Some Fridays may be “casual Fridays” allowing jeans. Healthcare Settings (Houston Methodist, MD Anderson, Texas Children’s): Hospital-appropriate attire includes scrubs (often provided), or business casual with closed-toe shoes for safety/hygiene. Avoid excessive jewelry, strong perfumes, or long nails that could interfere with patient care. Research/Laboratory Settings (NASA, Rice University): Lab-appropriate clothing covers skin and toes—long pants, closed-toe shoes (never sandals), and hair tied back. Remove dangling jewelry. Lab coats and safety equipment provided. Museum/Arts/Nonprofit Settings (Houston Museum, DiverseWorks, Houston Ballet): Smart casual is acceptable—clean jeans or khakis with nice shirt or blouse. General Houston Considerations: Houston summers are extremely hot and humid (95-100°F). Choose breathable fabrics, but maintain professional appearance. Most buildings are heavily air-conditioned, so bring a light sweater. Always ask your supervisor on day one about specific dress code expectations.

Can I get school credit for completing an internship in Houston?

Yes, many Houston-area high schools offer academic credit for approved internships through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, work-based learning initiatives, or independent study arrangements. Credit eligibility and requirements vary by school district and program. To earn credit, you typically must: coordinate with your school counselor or CTE coordinator before beginning the internship; ensure the internship meets minimum hour requirements (often 60-135 hours depending on credit amount); complete required assignments such as weekly reflection journals, skills logs, or final presentations; have your workplace supervisor complete midpoint and final evaluations; submit documentation proving hours worked and responsibilities completed; and sometimes attend periodic check-in meetings with school coordinator. Both paid and unpaid internships may qualify for credit. The Houston Independent School District (HISD) and surrounding districts have formal processes for work-based learning credit. Start the approval process early—ideally before applying to internships—to ensure the position qualifies. Some competitive programs like Houston Methodist and Rice University, specifically partner with schools to facilitate credit approval. If your school doesn’t offer formal credit, you can still document the experience prominently on college applications and resumes as valuable extracurricular achievement.

Explore More Internship Opportunities

Expand Your Search Beyond Houston

Looking for additional opportunities or considering programs in other locations? Explore these related resources:

Internships for High School Students in Texas – Comprehensive statewide opportunities across the Lone Star State
Internships for High School Students in Dallas – Explore opportunities in North Texas’s business hub
Internships for High School Students in Austin – Tech and government opportunities in the state capital
Internships for High School Students in San Antonio – Healthcare and military-focused programs
Internships for High School Students in Phoenix – Similar climate and growing tech scene in Arizona
Internships for High School Students in Atlanta – a Major Southern city with diverse opportunities
Internships for High School Students in Chicago – Midwest opportunities in finance, healthcare, and more
STEM Internships for High School Students – Science and technology-focused programs nationwide
Healthcare Internships for High School Students – Medical career exploration programs
Browse All High School Internship Locations – Complete national directory

Final Thoughts

Securing internships for high school students in Houston represents one of the most valuable investments you can make in your future. Houston’s unique position as home to NASA, the Texas Medical Center, major energy corporations, and vibrant arts institutions creates unparalleled opportunities for ambitious teens to gain real-world experience before college.

Whether you’re interested in space exploration at NASA, medical research at Houston Methodist, energy innovation at Shell or ConocoPhillips, or creative pursuits at Houston Ballet, the programs featured in this guide offer pathways to discover your passion and build professional skills that will serve you throughout your career.

Start your application process early—the most competitive programs fill positions quickly. Apply broadly to multiple opportunities, customize each application thoughtfully, and prepare professionally for interviews. Remember that even if you don’t secure your first-choice program, any internship experience strengthens your college applications, expands your network, and helps clarify your career direction.

Ready to launch your professional journey? Review the program table above, mark application deadlines in your calendar, and begin preparing your materials today. Houston’s internship opportunities await motivated students like you who are ready to transform their career aspirations into reality.

Questions about the application process or need help identifying the right program? Contact your school counselor, reach out directly to program coordinators listed above, or connect with Workforce Solutions Greater Houston for free career guidance.

15 Top Best High School Internships in Houston, TX 2026

Introduction

Top High School Internship Programs in Houston 2025-2026