Medical Social Work Internship Program

At Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, we believe that healing extends far beyond medical clinical intervention. Our Medical Social Work Internship Program is designed for students who are driven by a calling to serve the pediatric population and are committed to the principles of family-centered care within a high-acuity healthcare environment.

As an intern at one of the nation’s top-ranked pediatric hospitals, you will be an integral member of a multidisciplinary care team. You will work alongside world-class social workers, physicians, nurses, and specialists to provide compassionate support to children and families navigating the complexities of chronic illness, acute trauma, and hospitalization.

Program Components

Our curriculum is structured to bridge the gap between academic theory and the fast-paced reality of medical social work. Interns are challenged to develop skills in:

• Psychosocial Assessments: Evaluating the emotional and social needs of families at the time of diagnosis or admission.
• Crisis Intervention: Providing immediate support during medical emergencies, traumatic events, or end-of-life care.
• Resource Coordination: Navigating complex healthcare systems and community resources to ensure a safe transition from hospital to home.
• Advocacy: Serving as a voice for patients within the medical system and the broader Chicagoland area and more.

Application & Requirements

• We seek candidates who demonstrate strong clinical intuition, cultural humility, and a deep commitment to pediatric health equity.
  • Eligibility: This program is exclusively open to second-year Master of Social Work (MSW or equivalent) students currently enrolled in an accredited graduate program.
  • Candidate Profile: We look for students who have a documented interest in working with the pediatric population and a passion for practicing family-centered care in a medical setting.
  • Location: Primary placements are at our main downtown Chicago campus, with select opportunities at our outpatient satellite locations.

If interested in applying to be considered for the upcoming 2026-2027 student program:

Apply Here