Internship Basics

Everyone! Internships provide beneficial pre-professional experience and allow students an opportunity to learn more about a career path they are interested in. Internships look great on resumes and help to begin developing important networking relationships. There are internships available in every major that can provide educational opportunities outside of required college courses.

Some majors may require internships for graduation. Check with your Department Internship Coordinator to find out requirements and opportunities specific to your major.

The purpose of an internship is to obtain practical and valuable work experience, to apply skills and knowledge learned in school, and to gain exposure to various job opportunities. An internship must:

• Be a job directly related to your major.
• Be approved by your Department.

Introductory level internships are a great opportunity for students to "test drive" careers - giving them the chance to see what workers in that industry do on a daily basis. Those students without a declared major should see the Director of Internship Services for information regarding an internship through General Academics.

Your Department Coordinator will be able to give you a better idea of when you should complete your internship, based on the coursework you have completed. Although there is no set rule, you should try to complete an internship before the beginning of your Senior year.

As an intern, you have a responsibility to:

• Register at Utah Valley University for internship credit.
• Complete the internship during the dates specified.
• Comply with general rules, policies, and procedures of the organization.
• Work conscientiously under the direction of the supervisor assigned by the organization.
• Comply with the rules of confidentiality of the organization.
• Report serious problems, including physical, safety, and personnel, to the organization supervisor and the UVU Department Internship Coordinator.
• Complete all UVU academic assignments and course work related to this internship as outlined by the applicable Department Internship Coordinator.

1. Select an employer and internship with assistance from Career Services & Student Employment, faculty, International Center and/or others within your network.
2. Check on prerequisites for major and internship credit.
3. Obtain approval from your department internship coordinator.
4. Complete the online internship orientation and quiz.
5. Take responsibility for completion of required forms including a Master Agreement completed by the employer.
6. Complete required internship objectives.
7. Provide an online evaluation of the internship experience to help other students.

Remember that you must be registered for an internship before beginning work. No credit will be given for previous/past experiences.