Introduction to Internship
An internship is a professional development experience that enhances your education by providing an opportunity for you to:
- Explore work and career pathways in public and community service
- Apply classroom knowledge and skills to professional projects and workplace solutions
- Develop highly valued transferable skills and competencies in leadership and management
- Build professional relationships and establish yourself as an emerging professional
- Understand recruitment and hiring processes and trends for a successful transition and competitive edge in today’s marketplace!
The School of Public Affairs (SPA) Office of Career and Professional Development assists current undergraduate students to explore career interests and build career readiness and competencies through internship, experiential- and service-learning and other professional development activities. Graduate students may also elect to participate in professional development activities to enhance skills and experience for post-graduation employment and career advancement.
Both undergraduate and graduate students may earn academic credit toward their degree for their work-learning experience through participation in the internship course, PAF484 or PAF584, respectively.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) research has found a strong positive relationship between student participation in internships and increased probability of receiving professional employment offers while searching for post-graduation work prior to and upon graduation.
Recruiting and hiring in the field of public service is no different than other occupations - Everyone wants to hire knowledgeable and skilled candidates. Internship can help you be that candidate!
First steps to identify, seek and qualify an internship for professional development
Step 1. Attend a SPA Internship Introduction Session - recommended one semester prior to the semester that you plan to participate in an internship and the PAF484 or PAF584 course. Register for an Introduction Session. UPDATE: Introduction sessions to prepare for participation in summer and fall 2025 begin in January.
Virtual workshops for students seeking internships are scheduled Fridays 12-1 pm. The spring schedule begins in January for those seeking internship after the spring semester starts and beyond to summer and fall 2025. Use the registration link to plan ahead!
Step 2. Prepare and submit a SPA Internship Application . Click the link and use the online form to get started. Applications for internships starting in May 2025 or later will be accepted January 1 - March 1. Get in the queue early! If you are seeking internship in fall 2025 plan to apply no later than April 1 2025.
Step 3. Meet with the Internship Coordinator for an Intake Interview, to learn about current opportunities, review your application and promotional materials, develop a search plan, or qualify an internship for which you have been selected for credit and participation in the PAF484/584 course during the semester you are performing the internship.
Intake Interviews for credit in summer 2025 will be conducted February through May 2025. If you are seeking internship in fall 2025 plan to apply to SPA early for Intake and assistance identifying and seeking internship prior to spring and summer notices and recruitment deadlines.
