Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration

About the Program

Building a behavioral health workforce that mirrors the diversity of our Nation’s communities is a top priority. The SAMHSA Internship Program is designed to attract college students from populations typically underrepresented in the public health field. This includes women; veterans, persons with disabilities; Asian and Pacific Islanders; and students of Hispanic Serving Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Tribal Colleges and Universities.

By 2020, behavioral health disorders are projected to surpass all physical diseases as a major cause of disability worldwide. The need for highly competent, diverse professionals committed to reducing the impact of mental illness and substance abuse in communities could not be clearer. As a result, the workforce today and in the future must be composed of individuals well-schooled in a range of subjects, including:

• Substance abuse and mental health prevention and treatment
• Federal, state, and local government policies and regulations
• Health IT
• Program administration, operations, and management
• Research and data analysis
• Communications and social marketing
• Grant management

The SAMHSA Internship Program introduces students to the important role SAMHSA plays in ensuring a life in the community for everyone. And it offers students practical experience in projects, special assignments, or research that support Federal, state, and community-based programs, policies, and best practices in the prevention and treatment of substance abuse and mental illness.

Last updated: 10/16/2012