We are a small but dedicated local public health department serving several North Shore communities. Our aim is to provide the next generation of public health leaders with real-world experiences that build practical skills, deepen understanding of local public health practices, and support healthier communities.  

Whether you are seeking academic credit, hands-on experience, or an opportunity to explore a career in public health, we offer meaningful placements that allow students to make an impact while seeing public health in action. In addition, we provide a variety of volunteer opportunities for both individuals and groups, designed to align with a wide range of interests and skill sets. 

Application Deadlines 

PLEASE NOTE: It is recommended that you submit your application as soon as possible for full consideration. Before applying, please explore our website to learn more about the department and the services we offer. 

Throughout a placement at NSHD, you will have the opportunity to: 

• Apply a population health approach that integrates social determinants of health and health equity.  
• Explain the role of local public health systems and how programs, policies, and partnerships improve community health.  
• Use data and evidence to inform public health priorities, decision-making, and communication.  
• Engage effectively with communities and stakeholders to support health improvement efforts.  
• Demonstrate professionalism and ethical practice in a public health setting. 

Placement Requirements

• Availability during our office hours (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM) 
• In-person placement preferred; limited hybrid options may be available
• Flexibility to attend occasional off-site and/or weekend events
• Minimum commitment of 15 hours per week (3-hour block minimum)
• Time spent on site must be dedicated to approved placement-related activities
• Commitment to a collaborative learning experience where we can learn together 

Long-term Opportunities (1 semester or longer) 

• Academic placements: These placements are for academic credit or a degree program, and can include mentorships, internships, field placements, clinicals, or capstone projects. They typically include specific school requirements, such as a required number of hours, set learning objectives, and final deliverables. A signed and active agreement between NSHD and your academic institution is required.
• Non-academic placement: These placements are not for academic credit and can include non-credit internships, mentorships, or project-based experiences that typically involve supporting routine public health activities and programming. This placement is essential for meeting the community where they are, as events (like clinics and markets) often take place outside of regular business hours. This placement provides some of the best opportunities to see public health in action and to witness the meaningful impact our work can have on the community. 

Short-term Opportunities (Single event or less than 1 semester)

• Job shadowing: These opportunities allow individuals to spend a short period of time observing public health professionals in their day-to-day work. These experiences do not include assigned tasks or academic credit and are primarily focused on learning through observation and conversation, with occasional opportunities to observe hands-on public health activities. 
• Volunteer: These opportunities support the health department through community events, office work, and other public health initiatives, while offering volunteers firsthand experience in how public health connects with community needs and health equity. We accept volunteer applications through the Wisconsin Emergency Assistance Volunteer Registry (WEAVR), a statewide system that connects volunteers with emergency and public health response opportunities. We also use WEAVR to screen and select in-office volunteers. To apply, please visit WEAVR. 
• Group education: Schools, community organizations, and other groups may request a public health education session for a single event or learning opportunity. Depending on staff availability, topics may include environmental health, harm reduction, public health nursing, and other areas of local public health practice. Sessions may include presentations, discussions, or panel-style learning opportunities with health department staff. Currently, we cannot accept any semester-long clinical group placements. To request a group education opportunity, please complete the Community Event & Education Request Form. 

[Application for Educational Placement]

Meet the Placement Coordinators!