The University of Memphis guarantees an internship for all eligible students.

What is an Internship?

An internship is relevant work experience related to your major or career interests which may occur during the fall, spring or summer sessions. At the University of Memphis, internships include traditional internships, cooperative education, practicum, clinical and student teaching experiences. 

Each semester more than 2,000 U of M students are interning in schools, hospitals, businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Successful completion of an internship enhances your academic studies and career preparation.

What are the Internship Criteria?

• May be for credit or non-credit.
• May be paid or unpaid.
• Should be related to the student’s major or career interest.
• Credit for internships is subject to the approval of the academic unit. Internship courses typically have prerequisites associated with degree requirements.

What are the General Requirements?

All students must meet the general eligibility requirements listed below in order to participate in the “Internship Guarantee Program.”  In addition to these general requirements, students must also meet academic requirements and specific college/school/department requirements.

• All undergraduate students beginning their freshman year in Fall 2009 or later may participate in this program.
• Most students intern during their junior or senior year.
• Students must comply with any pre-employment checks required by employer (See employer requirements below).
• Students must complete internship preparation requirements (See internship preparation below).
• International students – See Curricular Practical Training requirements http://www.memphis.edu/iso/pdfs/Employment_Section_2__part_1_.pdf

What are the Academic Requirements?

• Students must be in good academic standing*  http://asr.memphis.edu/goodstanding.htm
• Students must be making satisfactory progress toward a degree.

*Students should be aware that individual employers or academic units may require a higher GPA than is necessary for good academic standing. Additionally, many employers require criminal background and consumer credit checks and drug tests. Students who have concerns about these employer requirements should speak with a Career Services staff member or academic advisor prior to beginning the internship search process.

How do I prepare for an Internship?

Pre-planning for internships is essential. During the freshman year, students should comply with the Finish in Four Academic and Career Plan. http://www.memphis.edu/cas/docs/checklist.doc

At the beginning of your sophomore year:

• Students whose academic departments have an internship program are encouraged to complete the departmental requirements as appropriate.
• Students whose academic departments do not have an internship program are encouraged to complete the online internship orientation module. http://www.memphis.edu/internorient/ 
• Students desiring academic credit should seek approval for the internship at least one semester in advance of registration and participation in the internship experience.
• Students should develop a resume, cover letter, and prepare for interviews.

When Should I Complete an Internship?

Students typically participate in internships during their junior or senior year. Depending on their academic programs and other circumstances, a few sophomores may participate in internships.

How Do I Obtain an Internship?

• Consult with academic advisor/faculty/staff in your area of study. http://www.memphis.edu/internships/contacts.php
• Consult with Director of Academic Internships – Dixie R. Crase drcrase@memphis.edu
• Consult with Assistant Director of Employer Relations and Internships – Courtney Pierce cpierce2@memphis.edu
• Students may obtain their own internships.
  • Network! Let friends, family, current/former employers and classmates know of your interest in an internship.
  • Research and contact organization(s) of interest.
  • Students should discuss their internship plans with their academic advisor, faculty, the Director of Academic Internships, or the Assistant Director for Employer Relations and Internships.

How do I earn Academic Credit for an Internship?

• Credit for internships is subject to the approval of the academic unit. Review degree requirements and complete the prerequisites for enrollment in internship courses in your area.
• With an approved Learning Contract, you may choose to enroll in UNIV 4000 Community Internship for academic credit http://www.memphis.edu/internships/acadcredit.php

Where do I gain Additional Information about Internships?

• Academic Advisor, Faculty or Staff in your area of study http://www.memphis.edu/internships/contacts.php 
• Courtney Pierce, Career Services
  Assistant Director of Employer Relations and Internships
  cpierce2@memphis.edu 
  Phone 901-678-2239
• Dixie R. Crase
  Director of Academic Internships
  drcrase@memphis.edu 
  Phone 901-678-3102
• Career Services http://www.memphis.edu/careerservices/
• University Internships http://www.memphis.edu/internships/