The Career and Technical Education department offers Work Based Learning (WBL) which adheres to guidelines set by the Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) Work Based Learning Initiative. At DSHS, internships are available only to seniors* who have completed at least 2 consecutive courses in the Program of Study in which they are seeking an internship experience. DSHS is proud and grateful to partner with many outstanding local clinics and businesses who open their doors to students for a full school year to mentor them in valuable career and technical skills. 

Participating in a practicum internship is an invaluable opportunity that helps students clarify which career path to pursue after high school by giving them valuable work experience and necessary soft skills. It is also beneficial for employers, who receive interns who have at least 2 years of experience studying in their industry. The students are often able to contribute to projects as well as assist with skilled tasks and daily operations. Internships can be paid or unpaid, which is up to the host site. Finally, hosting internships is a rewarding experience for employers who enjoy giving back to their community and mentoring the next generation of professionals in their industries. 

*The only exception to the “seniors only rule” is made for juniors who are Veterinary Technician candidates. Aspiring vet techs are allowed to participate in internships during junior and senior year, because the Vet Tech (CVA-Level1) certification exam requires 300 hours of hands-on clinical experience to be documented by a supervising veterinarian in order to sit for the IBC test by graduation. Eligibility for this option is determined by the agriculture Program of Study teachers.