Internship Overview
This immersive program combines practical GIS application, ecological fieldwork, and personal development at a leading conservation reserve in central South Africa. Interns use GIS software like QGIS, collect spatial data on site, and support real conservation projects.
Program Components
Preparation
Interns complete an online introduction to GIS fundamentals such as vector vs raster, projections, and map elements before arrival.
Bio Monitoring & Fieldwork
On arrival, interns participate in biodiversity surveys, game transects, bird-point counts, vegetation assessments, camera trap maintenance, and alien species control. Spatial attribute data is collected using Trimble GPS devices.
QGIS Training
Interns complete the first 10 modules of the QGIS training manual at their own pace, with guidance from a field ecologist and support during practical field exercises.
Conservation Research Project
You’ll combine field-collected data with reserve datasets to help answer conservation questions. At the end, you’ll submit a project for review and receive a completion certificate detailing your skills and work.
Additional Benefits
- Schedule flexibility: Typically full time Monday to Friday but flexible for research needs including possible weekend or evening work.
- Supervised learning: Hands-on mentorship and guidance throughout.
- Professional growth: Build practical GIS skills and research experience under a structured curriculum.
- Experiential learning and cultural awareness: Gain soft skills and cultural competence as part of InternHQ’s learning structure.
- Academic credit: Options available through your institution.
Logistics & Inclusions
- Duration: 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 weeks with fees ranging from ~$2,909 (4 weeks) to ~$6,589 (12 weeks).
- Deposit: $499 upfront, applied toward the total program fee.
- What’s included: Airport pickup and return on specific Mondays, tent-style accommodation with meals, orientation, 24/7 support, guided tourism tips, personalized placement and supervision, certificate of completion and reference letter.
- Not included: Flights, visas, travel insurance, background checks, personal expenses, optional specialty dietary items.
Field Environment & Living Conditions
Accommodation is in shared safari-style tents with beds, solar-powered lights, power stations, and hot-water showers. Shared camp duties like cooking and cleaning are arranged on a roster. Connectivity is limited with basic Wi-Fi for email and social media. Local SIM cards are recommended. Power is solar with a backup generator, so device charging must be managed carefully. Free time can include cultural visits, safaris, shark-cage diving, beaches, and museums.
Who Should Apply?
Students or recent graduates interested in surveying, geography, environmental science, applied science, or conservation. Applicants must have basic computer skills and intermediate English.