The WHO Public Health Internship: Launch a Global Health Career Today!

Introduction to the WHO Public Health Internship

Are you a motivated student or recent graduate in public health, epidemiology, social science, or global communications? The WHO public health internship in Geneva offers you unparalleled exposure to international public health systems at the very heart of decision-making. This is your chance to gain real-world experience with world leaders in disease prevention, health policy, and emergency response—all within the prestigious United Nations framework.

About the WHO Internship Program

The WHO Internship Programme is designed to develop future leaders in global health by embedding them within its technical and administrative environments. Interns contribute to vital WHO work, including pandemic preparedness, health data analytics, communications, and capacity building, while gaining insight into international collaboration at the WHO’s Geneva headquarters and beyond.

WHO actively seeks candidates from diverse academic fields, including public health, epidemiology, medicine, social science, communications, human resources, and external relations. Internships can be located at the WHO headquarters in Geneva, regional offices, or country offices.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the WHO public health internship, you must meet the following criteria:

• Age 20 or older at the time of application.
• Enrolled in or have recently completed (within six months) an undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate degree, with at least three years of full-time study in relevant fields.
• Fluent in at least one WHO working language (English, French, or Spanish).
• Not related to any WHO staff member.
• A valid passport from a WHO member state.
• Not participated in the WHO Internship Programme before.

WHO emphasizes that internships are extremely competitive. Only a small number of opportunities are available each year.

Duration & Structure

• Full-time internships lasting a minimum of 6 weeks and up to 24 weeks, with most in Geneva lasting around 12 weeks.
• Interns are placed within WHO teams on active projects such as epidemiology research, pandemic planning, or health technology communication.
• Extensions beyond 12 weeks may be possible based on performance and departmental needs.

Benefits of the WHO Public Health Internship

While WHO internships are unpaid, eligible interns receive a living allowance to support basic expenses. In Geneva:

• Up to 1,620 CHF/month for interns whose primary residence is outside Geneva.
• Up to 720 CHF/month for locals.
• All interns get a daily meal voucher (~15 CHF/day)
• Medical and accident insurance is provided throughout the internship.

While the stipend offers basic support, the cost of living in Geneva remains high; many interns still depend on external funding, scholarships, or university assistance.

Interns develop a suite of vital competencies:

• Technical proficiency in epidemiology, statistical analysis, planning, or communications.
• Research and reporting, drafting briefs, publications, or reports.
• Teamwork and cultural fluency across diverse WHO units.
• Computer literacy: MS Office suite, SharePoint, Teams; familiarity with citation tools is a plus

You’ll refine written and verbal communication, essential for life in multilateral organizations.

Expected Day-to-Day Intern Responsibilities

Depending on your specific placement, your tasks may include:

• Conducting literature reviews and epidemiological assessments
• Supporting the drafting of technical reports and policy briefs
• Assisting with training resources or capacity-building toolkits
• Contributing to web content updates or communications campaigns
• Organizing data, managing Excel files, and preparing slide decks for meetings

Your work will directly support WHO’s global initiatives—from pandemic prevention to health equity and international coordination.

How to Apply

Applying to the WHO public health internship is simple but competitive. Follow these steps

1. Prepare a compelling dossier including:
   • CV (1–2 pages) with emphasis on technical and global experience
   • Cover letter explaining your interest, relevant coursework, and adaptability to WHO customer competencies
   • Academic transcripts and proof of enrolment or recent degree
   • Reference letters or contact info for referees (as required)
2. Submit your application through Stellis, attaching documents and required declarations before the vacancy closes.
3. If shortlisted, expect outreach from hiring staff; maintain flexibility for start dates.
4. Upon selection, complete medical fitness forms and a declaration of interests.

WHO advises applying 3–4 months before your desired start date to account for processing time.

The WHO public health internship offers real-world experience in global health policymaking and implementation, an essential stepping stone for any aspiring global health professional.

If you’re eligible and committed, apply now when positions are posted via the WHO recruitment portal.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

See also:

Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!

The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!

World Trade Organization Internship Program 2025

Apply for the $5,000 Pathways Access Scholarship