Faculty and Advisors

Overview

Internship Criteria

An internship is a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a professional setting. Internships give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields they are considering for career paths; and give employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent. (National Association of Colleges and Employers)

What qualifies as an internship?

An internship must:

• Be supervised by a professional within the organization the student works for
• Serve PRIMARILY as a learning experience for the student
• Have clearly defined duties and activities agreed upon by student and the employer
• Include an analytical or reflective component
• Assist student in progressing toward a professional or exploratory career goal
• Comply with all relevant employment laws and statues; student does not give up their rights as an employee due to student status
• If for academic credit – Is supervised by a faculty or staff member within the University

An internship should:

• Take place in a professional setting (adequately structured remote experiences can also be internships)
• Have clear expectations and evaluation processes provided by the employer
• Assist the student in delineating a career path from the internship forward
• Encourage the student to develop Career Competencies.