Introduction to Internship
An internship is a work-learning experience that enhances your education experience by providing an opportunity for you to
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Explore work and career pathways in public and community service
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Apply classroom knowledge and skills to professional projects and workplace solutions
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Develop highly valued transferable skills and competencies in leadership and management
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Build professional relationships and establish yourself as an emerging professional
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Understand recruitment and hiring processes and trends for a successful transition and gain a competitive edge in today’s marketplace!
Junior or senior students planning to graduate in August or December 2023 should prepare now for internship in the Summer or Fall of 2023. On average, identifying, seeking, and securing an internship takes approximately 3-6 months. New Applications for summer and fall 2023 will be accepted in January.
The School of Public Affairs (SPA) Internship Program
The Bachelor of Science in Public Service and Public Policy (all concentrations) and Bachelor of Science in Urban Metropolitan Studies degree programs require that students complete their internship and participate in the PAF484-Internship class, earning academic credit for their work-learning experience. Graduate students pursuing a Master's of Public Administration or a Master's of Public Policy may elect to participate in an internship and earn academic credit (PAF 584) toward their degree.
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 graduation. Recruiting and hiring in the field of public service is no different than other occupations - Everyone wants to hire knowledgeable and skilled candidates.
First steps to identifying, seeking, and qualifying an internship
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 PAF 584 course. Register for an Introduction Session here. Virtual workshops for summer 2023 internships are scheduled, Fridays at noon January 27 through March 10.
2. Prepare a SPA Internship Application for summer or fall 2023
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 PAF 484/584 course, during the same semester. Intake Interviews for summer or fall 2023 will be conducted February through March 2023.
Resource Guide
Learn more about:
Identifying an Internship
