The NexGen: Tennessee Hospital Executive Internship is a summer internship program hosted by the Tennessee Hospital Association that helps prepare the next generation of healthcare leaders. 

This 12-week, supervised learning experience is designed for qualified graduate students interested in healthcare administration or a related field. Interns are placed with executive teams at hospitals and health systems across the state, where they gain real-world exposure to hospital operations. Through close collaboration with administrators and staff, this program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as future leaders in the healthcare industry.  

If you have any questions, please contact Program Manager Karizma Whitfield.

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Information for Students

Application Checklist and Timeline
2026 INTERN APPLICATION

NexGen Internship Experience at a Glance

Interns are immersed in hospital operations through administrator shadowing, senior staff interviews, and hands-on project work. They attend leadership meetings, contribute to strategic initiatives, and engage directly with executives across departments to gain a well-rounded view of healthcare administration. Each student also completes a capstone project that delivers real value to their host organization. With a focus on personal and professional growth, NexGen interns are expected to fully participate, ask questions, contribute to team efforts, and present their experience to THA and hospital leaders at the end of the summer. View the Student Information Guide to learn more.

2025 Intern Testimonials

THA Internship Program History

NexGen: Tennessee Hospital Executive Internship

The NexGen: Tennessee Hospital Executive Internship is the next chapter in THA’s longstanding commitment to healthcare leadership development. The program will host its first cohort of interns 2026.  

Agenda 21 Internship Program 

Since its launch in 1995, the Agenda 21 Internship Program opened doors for aspiring healthcare leaders. As THA’s first internship initiative, it became a cornerstone for developing talent and inspiring future executives. In 2025, THA proudly hosted the program’s final cohort, honoring it’s remarkable, 30-year legacy. To view program history and past intern project spotlights, click here.