Attention A T users. To access the menus on this page please perform the following steps. 1. Please switch auto forms mode to off. 2. Hit enter to expand a main menu option (Health, Benefits, etc). 3. To enter and activate the submenu links, hit the down arrow. You will now be able to tab or arrow up or down through the submenu options to access/activate the submenu links.

Office of Discovery, Education and Affiliate Networks

Menu
Menu
Quick Links
Veterans Crisis Line Badge
My healthevet badge
 

College and High School Students

A group of students are seated at desks in a classroom, focused on writing in their notebooks. The foreground shows a student in a green hoodie holding a pen and writing in a spiral notebook, while other students in the background are also engaged in their work. The desks are wooden, and the classroom has a bright, natural light coming through the windows.

Start Early. Explore Careers That Matter. 🌱

If you're a high school or college student, it's not too early to start building a future in mental health. VA and federal agencies offer resources, internships, and entry-level opportunities that let you explore healthcare careers while you’re still in school.

Why Choose a Mental Health Career?

Mental health professionals are in high demand, and that demand continues to grow. For example, the U.S. Department of Labor projects a 13% increase in the need for psychiatric technicians—an entry-level role that can lead to long-term mental health careers.

Explore Resources and Tools

✅ Start Your Career – U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

Discover in-demand health careers, explore job options, and plan your career while still in school.

Visit HHS Start Your Career

✅ CareerOneStop – U.S. Department of Labor

Use this site to:

  • Explore career options
  • Take interest and skills assessments
  • Find scholarships and certification programs
  • Get tips for young adults, entry-level workers, and Veterans

Visit CareerOneStop

✅ USAJOBS – Student Internship and Job Opportunities

The official job board for the federal government includes a section just for students.

  • Search internships by agency or location
  • Learn about the Pathways Program
  • Apply for paid, resume-building internships at VA and other agencies

Visit USAJOBS Students Section

✅ Entry-Level Mental Health Jobs

Some careers require only a high school diploma or short-term certification. Consider:

  • Psychiatric Technician
  • Peer Support Assistant
  • Behavioral Health Aide
  • Mental Health Program Assistant

These roles allow you to gain experience and prepare for higher-level positions. Learn more on the Paraprofessionals and Certification-Based Careers page.

Learn About Mental Health Careers at VA

This page outlines mental health roles like social workers, psychologists, and counselors, and includes scholarship info and application guidance.

Next Steps 🚀

Talk with your school counselor about healthcare careers and what qualifications you’ll need.

return to top go