Internship Program

Thank you for your interest in an internship with Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. The Internship Program at Nashville Zoo in an opportunity for high school or college students to acquire experience and knowledge by working alongside our professional staff.

Although internship positions are not paid, the experience will no doubt benefit a student’s future endeavors in the zoological field or related area of interest. Internships may be available for students in animal care, education, administration, or special events.

Internship Program Overview

Eligibility Requirements and Time Commitment

Nashville Zoo internships occur every trimester at three Levels. The following dates are all approximate; please contact your school advisor for more specific dates regarding your application and your school schedule.

- Fall Semester (September – December): Applications due by July 15
- Spring Semester (January – April): Applications due by November 15
- Summer Semester (May – August): Applications due by March 1

Level One Level Two (spring and fall sessions only) Level Three (spring and fall sessions only)
College Credit Non-college Credit High School
Assigned Project College Credit/No Project Service Credit/No Project
20-40 Hours/Week 8-20 Hours/Week Minimum 50 to 70 Total Hours
Minimum of 10 weeks Minimum 8 Weeks

Applying for an Internship

Please email, fax or mail the following information together to apply for an internship. Letters of Recommendation must be included in the application packet. Incomplete application packets will not be considered.

  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • Two Letters of Recommendation (one letter must be written by a representative of the academic institution in which you are currently enrolled)
  • Nashville Zoo Internship Application

EMAIL: volunteer@nashvillezoo.org

FAX: 615-333-0728

MAIL: Nashville Zoo
Attn: Volunteer Programs Manager
3777 Nolensville Pike
Nashville, TN 37211

Upon receiving the completed application, selected students will be contacted to schedule an interview. Efforts are made to place students in their area of interest.

Tuberculin (TB) Skin Test

All interns assigned to an animal care area are required to submit a current (within past 12 months) TB skin test prior to interning.