Non-Credit Internship Option

Overview:

Kean’s non-credit internship option is an experiential learning experience that allows students who may not meet the criteria for academic credit to still gain formal recognition of their internship.  This also applies to students who want to gain internship experience, but do not need (or want) academic credit.

Criteria for an Experience to be Recognized as an Internship 

To ensure that an experience is eligible to be recognized as an internship, the following criteria must be met: 

  1. The experience must be an extension of the classroom: a learning experience that provides for applying the knowledge gained in the classroom.
  2. The skills or knowledge learned must be transferable to other employment settings.
  3. The experience has a defined beginning and end, and a job description with desired qualifications.
  4. There are clearly defined learning objectives/goals related to the professional goals of the student’s academic coursework. 
  5. There is supervision by a professional with expertise and educational and/or professional background in the field of the experience.
  6. There is routine feedback provided by the experienced supervisor.  
  7. There are resources, equipment, and facilities provided by the host employer that support learning objectives/goals. 

(Source: National Association of Colleges & Employers)

Co-Curricular Transcript Notation: 

Notation of student completing Kean’s Non-Credit Internship Option provides formal college recognition on the student’s co-curricular transcript (CCT).  This will be updated on the CCT upon successful completion of the approved internship.

Students Who May Benefit Include But is Not Limited To: 

  1. Students who are currently working through non-work study or work-study assignments.
  2. Students who have already completed internship requirements of their program.
  3. Students who’ve already enrolled in the maximum number of credits for the semester.

Eligibility Requirements

  1. Internship must be approved by the university (internship must be submitted and approved through Handshake Experience.
  2. Suggested G.P. A. 2.5>
  3. Internship relates to student’s professional/career interest.
  4. Students must work at least 40 hours in their internship over the the course of the semester.
  5. Students must have earned at least 23 credits from a University.
  6. Supervisor must complete a one time evaluation for student.
  7. Student completes a one time self evaluation which includes reflective questions. 

Steps for Finding, Applying and Registering a Non-Credit Internship

  1. Find an internship: Students can begin their job search on Handshake. Other popular sites for internship opportunities include: indeed.com, Internships.com and LinkedIn.com. Don’t forget micro internships as well. Additionally, connecting with professors, friends and the Office of Career Services may be able to share other opportunities!
  2. Apply for your internship: Once you have identified internship opportunities, you will apply on your own. Career Services can assist with your resume and application if needed. 
  3. Register your internship: After receiving an official offer, register your internship in Handshake Experiences.  All internships must be reviewed and approved  by Career Services and your Academic Department to determine if the internships meets the criteria for an internship.

Once approved, you may begin your internship.

Questions? Contact Kean’s Career Services at career@kean.edu or (908) 737-0320.