The Department of Homeland Security is looking for smart students. Really smart students. The kind who want to work on cutting-edge technology that actually matters. The kind who want to solve real problems for national security.
And they’re willing to pay you to do it.
The HS-POWER (Homeland Security Professional Opportunities for the Student Workforce to Experience Research) internship program is now accepting applications. If you’re an undergraduate or graduate student in STEM fields, this could be your ticket to working alongside some of the brightest minds in homeland security.
What You Actually Do
You won’t be fetching coffee or filing papers. You’ll be working directly with DHS professionals and researchers on cutting-edge projects that directly support the Department’s national security mission.
Your internship will be paired with a mentor at:
- DHS headquarters in Washington, D.C.
- A DHS component (like CBP, ICE, TSA, FEMA, etc.)
- A DHS laboratory
You’ll network with actual DHS professionals. You’ll work on real research. You’ll contribute to solutions that protect America.
The Details
Duration: 10 weeks, typically during summer starting in June
Flexibility: You can negotiate start dates to fit your schedule
Compensation: You get a stipend (paid salary) PLUS a housing allowance
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students from across the United States and its territories
Fields: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Application Deadline: January 5, 2026
Why This Matters
This isn’t just an internship. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to:
- Work on problems that actually matter
- Network with national security professionals
- Get paid while you gain real-world experience
- Potentially launch a career in homeland security
- See how government actually works at the highest levels
- Contribute to protecting your country
What DHS S&T Does
The DHS Science and Technology Directorate was created by Congress in 2003 to enable effective, efficient, and secure operations across all homeland security missions. They conduct:
- Basic and applied research
- Development and testing
- Evaluation activities
- Innovation in homeland security solutions
- Support for first responders
- Critical infrastructure protection
This is serious work. Real research. The kind of research that changes how America protects itself.
Who Should Apply
Are you a student in:
- Computer science
- Engineering
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Data science
- Cybersecurity
- Any other STEM field
Do you care about national security? Do you want to work on real problems? Do you want to be part of something bigger than yourself?
Then this program is for you.
How to Apply
Applications are open now through January 5, 2026.
Visit: the DHS S&T Office of University Programs website
You’ll need to:
- Provide your academic background
- Explain your interest in homeland security
- Highlight your STEM skills
- Get recommendation letters (probably from professors)
- Show that you’re serious about this
The application process is straightforward. Don’t overthink it. Just apply.
What Former Interns Say
The DHS S&T program has a track record. Former interns have gone on to careers in:
- Federal law enforcement
- Cybersecurity
- Infrastructure protection
- Technology development
- Policy and strategy
Many say the internship was the turning point in their career. The networking. The experience. The knowledge. It all matters.
The Bigger Picture
DHS is investing in the next generation of homeland security professionals. They’re not just hiring. They’re building. They’re developing talent. They’re creating a pipeline of smart people who understand the challenges facing the country.
If you’re that person—the one who wants to make a difference, who has the skills, who cares about this country—this is your chance.
Practical Information
- Internships are typically 10 weeks
- You get paid (stipend)
- You get housing covered (housing allowance)
- Mentorship from real DHS professionals
- Flexibility on start dates
- Open to students from all U.S. states and territories
The Bottom Line
The DHS Science and Technology Directorate is accepting applications for the HS-POWER internship program. If you’re a STEM student who wants to work on real national security problems, get paid, and launch your career, this is your opportunity.
Application deadline: January 5, 2026.
Don’t wait. Apply now.
For more information, visit the DHS S&T Office of University Programs website or watch the HS-POWER program video.
This could be the best decision you make in college.
