Internships FAQ

How do I find an internship?

Internships can be found through job searches on Handshake, which is centered on early career hiring, or by checking out individual company websites. Additionally, using sites such as Linkedin.com, indeed.com and networking with professors and personal contacts can support individuals in identifying internship opportunities.  Once you’ve identified an internship opportunity you can apply on your own. Be sure to have an updated resume. Don’t have one? Create one in vMock!

Now that I secured an internship how do I register for for academic credit?

After receiving an official offer, register your internship in Handshake Experiences.  All internships are reviewed by Career Services and your Academic Department to determine if the criteria to receive credit has been met.  If your placement does not meet the criteria, you may be registered for a non-credit internship which will still appear on your Co-Curricular Transcript.

When is the last day I can register my internship for academic credit? 

To earn academic credit for an internship, students MUST register internships through Handshake. Registration timelines follow the academic calendar for the drop/add deadline; failure to meet those deadline will result in your internship not being approved for credit. The approval process may take a few days, so submit all internship paperwork as soon as an offer is received.

How many credits can I receive for my internship?

There are 1, 2 and 3 credit internships. You must register for the course that corresponds with the credits and complete the hours associated with that course. 

Can I complete an internship this semester and register for the course next semester?

No, credit can only be earned in the semester that the internship is taking place.

Can I get credit for an internship I completed in the past?

No, credit can not be granted for past internships. Approval must be received prior to starting the internship.

Do internship courses require academic work?

Required assignments vary by major and all assignments are listed in Canvas. You will be required to attend Internship Essentials, a lecture to help you survive and thrive in your internship.

Can I complete an internship in the Summer or Winter Semesters?

Yes. Hours and credits will vary based on the length of the internship.

How many hours at the internship site are required for the Internship Course?

Can I use my current job as an internship?

No, you cannot use a current full time position as an academic internship experience. However, you can use a different department within your current employer to fulfill the academic internship requirements. Duties and responsibilities must be significantly different and you must have a different assigned supervisor for your internship experience than your work experience. This arrangement must be discussed and approved by the Career Services team and/or your faculty advisor before proceeding.

Can I use a paid internship for credit?

Yes, paid internships can be used to fulfill the requirements of an internship for credit where applicable.

What if I don’t find an internship site prior to the beginning of the semester?

To avoid this, it is strongly recommended that students begin their internship search the semester prior to when they wish to work. If the semester begins and you have not secured an internship, reach out to Career Services for job search strategies and resume support ASAP.

What if I don’t finish my internship hours during the semester?

If you are unable to complete hours or assignments, you may not pass the course. In these instances, it is important to speak with your academic advisor immediately to discuss your options.

Where do I submit my internship for approval?

Internships both for credit and non-credit must be submitted to Handshake Experience for review and approval.

What happens after my internship agreement is finalized?

• After your internship agreement has been finalized, you should see it reflected in your Student Planning. 
• You should also see a course appear in Canvas.
• You will be expected to submit weekly assignments in Canvas. 
• You will need to complete a Pre-Assessment prior to starting internship (posted in Canvas).
• You will need to complete a Post-Assessment at the completion of internship (posted in Canvas).
• Your supervisor will be asked to complete a final evaluation, which will be emailed to them directly.

IMPORTANT: Once you see your internship registered in your student planning it is important to remember this is a course.  If you decide to not complete your internship, you will need to withdraw from the course using the same deadlines and protocols that you would for any other course and email your internship advisor immediately. Failure to do so may result in not receiving credit for the engagement