The University of Memphis values internships for students.  This program has been developed to provide students with internships as an extension of their classroom experience as well as preparation for their future career.

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://saweb.memphis.edu/ces/media/fininfour1.pdf

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 should prepare for an internship by visiting Career Services, click here.
  

  Students can schedule appointments with the Career Services staff for assistance in developing resumes, completing career assessments, and developing interview skills. Online support for resume development and interview skills are also available through Career Services.

  Students are encouraged to prepare in advance by preparing a quality resume and practicing interview strategies for the most effective results in obtaining an internship.

• 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 Information Regarding Internships?

Information regarding internships can be gained in the following ways:

• Departmental academic advisors, faculty, and staff in your academic area of study.
• Office of Academic Internships:  Jodie Cherry, jmcherry@memphis.edu, 678-3448 or Dixie R. Crase, drcrase@memphis.edu, 678-3102.
• Career Services:  Courtney Cook, cpierce2@memphis.edu, 678-2239
• University Internships, www.memphis.edu/internships
• Career Services, www.memphis.edu/careerservices

Students may also learn of internships independently in the community.  If you research and learn of an opportunity for an academic internship, consult with your advisor or the Academic Internship office for possible academic credit.

Plan early for your internship—consult with the resources listed above to help you achieve an internship that’s right for you.

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