Hoffmann Center actively supports and encourages the placement of college students for internships at Hoffmann Center. Such arrangements normally are made by the Executive Director or Clinical Supervisor with the Psychology, Social Work, Corrections or related departments of Mankato State University, Gustavus Adolphus College, and other accredited colleges. Internships are useful to Hoffmann Center in providing additional programming possibilities and allow the Center to participate in the development of future professionals in our field.

Undergraduate students are interviewed by the Executive Director (or designated unit coordinator) prior to acceptance.  References will be checked specifically including information relating to past exploitation of clients as a part of Minnesota Statutes Chapter 372. A background check will be conducted as well. If the student appears satisfactory, a decision is made to assign him/her to work with a particular unit, depending on interests, skills, and internship requirements. An intern receives an orientation similar to that of a new employee. Additional assignments are made according to the course requirements.  Masters level internships are arranged on an individual basis by the Clinical Supervisor.

Interns are expected to present themselves as adult staff members at all times. They are, however, not to transport clients in any vehicle, distribute medication, participate in physical holding, drive the Center's vehicles, or to have sole supervisory responsibility for clients.