Duration: 8–24 weeks (minimum 8 weeks, maximum 24 weeks)
Start Dates: Every Monday (subject to availability; limited spots during peak holidays)
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Accommodation: Included (shared, with Wi-Fi and cooking facilities)
Meals: Not included (interns are responsible for meals)
Support: Full hosting—airport pickup on arrival, orientation, and in-country assistance
Ideal For: Students or recent graduates in health sciences, public health, nursing, nutrition, social work, education, or related fields, with proficiency in English
Apply Here: Free application via Intern Abroad HQ portal
What You’ll Do
- Assist qualified professionals with public health initiatives in diverse environments like clinics, NGOs, research institutions, environmental health organizations, and community health centers
- Learn how public health systems support community well-being through education and prevention campaigns
- Contribute to public health programs, educational outreach, and administrative or project support
- Orientation week focuses on settling in; hands-on involvement begins once you’re familiarized with your placement
- Placement will be matched according to your skills, study level, experience, and preferences—but flexibility is essential
Cultural & Professional Growth
- Immerse yourself in Cape Town’s uniquely challenging public health environment, shaped by disparities, urbanization, and lifestyle-driven health issues
- Collaborate with experienced supervisors—these are non-medical internships, so supervision emphasizes public health, education, and community outreach
- Gain practical skills like communication, program support, cultural sensitivity, and strategic thinking on public health issues
- Earn academic or course credit through InternHQ’s experiential learning curriculum
Costs & Inclusions
| Included | Not Included |
|---|---|
| Airport pick-up | Meals |
| Shared accommodation (Wi-Fi, kitchen) | In-country transport |
| Orientation & local support | Visa, flights, insurance, vaccinations, background check |
| Academic credit facilitation | Personal spending |
Program Fee: Starts at US $3,057 for 8 weeks (approx. $54/day), increasing up to US $6,366 for 24 weeks (approx. $37/day)
Deposit: US $499 to confirm placement (deducted from total fee)
Balance: Due ~70 days before start; installment and Zero-Fee Payment Plan options available
Transaction Fee: 5% international transaction charge applies
Arrival & Orientation
- Arrive on the Saturday before your Monday start to rest and orient yourself
- Orientation on Sunday includes a cultural brief, safety guidance, expectations, and local insights
- Street arrival guidance and logistics vary during holidays—late December and early January may offer limited availability
What to Pack & Prepare
- Bring season-appropriate clothing, a notebook, a laptop, and essential documents
- Budget for meals and in-country transport—Uber or public transit costs may range from US $10–20/day, or optional shuttle service (~US $200–300/month)
- Communal accommodations have shared common areas—notify in advance if you have special lodging needs
Final Thoughts
This public health internship offers hands-on support in community well-being initiatives, fostering both professional development and cultural immersion in one of the world’s most diverse cities. It’s a dynamic opportunity for those passionate about health education, disease prevention, and empowerment in underserved communities.