Internship Basics

What is an internship?

The purpose of an internship is to gain relevant work experience, to apply skills and knowledge learned in school, and to gain exposure to jobs within your industry. Internships should generally be a stepping stone into your future career.

An internship must:

• Be related to your major.
• Be registered for credit.
• Be approved by your department.

Who should complete an internship?

Check with your department coordinator to learn what your department requires of an internship. Some departments require more than one internship; some departments require other types of experiential learning (clinicals for nursing students, student teaching for education majors, etc.). Be sure to work with your department for specifics.  

When should you look for an internship?

We recommend that you start your research two semesters in advance of the semester you'd like to work. This will give you time to research, prepare, apply, receive and accept an offer, and make any necessary arrangements for temporary relocation.

When do I need to register?

An internship is an academic course and you must therefore register for it before beginning work. However, internship registration deadlines are not the same as academic deadlines. You should secure your internship early and allow yourself plenty of time to get registered, approximately 30 days before starting work. Regular registration deadlines do apply if you are seeking financial aid.

Requirements for an Art Internship

Art 498 "Internship in the Arts" Syllabus

For questions about Art Department Internships contact our Internship coordinator: Shawn Randall