Internship
LDRV 393/493
Work and receive course credit at the same time.
When you spend time working or in a non-profit setting, you can also gain course credit. You will need the agreement of an agency sponsor (or you can be an intern in support of the program itself), but we will also provide you with mentorship through the experience.
We recommend this if your Future Goals include any of the following:
MBA Degree
Marketing
Networking or specifically growing your Developmental Network
Caveat: If this is only one of your possible goals, an Independent Study may be more appropriate as it can INCLUDE these goals, but not be limited by them. However, you cannot gain course credit for working with other agencies EXCEPT through an Internship, you can combine 1 credit hour of any of these experiences however.
Core Requirements
Approval from Faculty & Your Advisor
Course is completed with a full-time faculty member as Mentor/Supervisor.
Live Synchronized Sessions (Set individually with the supervising professor.)
45 hours of work per unit of credit, per semester. (1-3 unit options are available.)
All required elements are submitted via D2L
Time Tracking & Reporting (Please note: Internships will have unique time tracking and reporting requirements)
Internship-Specific Requirements
If you want to earn academic credit for an internship, you will be responsible for much of the legwork. As part of earning credit for an internship you will also be required to complete additional logs and written assignments.
Secure an internship with an outside agency (this is where Career Services can help) OR you can serve as an Org. Leadership program intern - and we can find work for the program for you to do that aligns with your career goals! Marketing, design, management, etc. etc.
Receive approval from faculty and register for your internship course at least one week before the beginning of the semester you will complete your internship in. (There will be more forms to fill out at this stage, it can't be helped!)
As an Intern you agree to:
Sign up at least one week before the beginning of the semester which you want to earn credit in.
Recognize that you are representing The University of Arizona as an ambassador to the community and abide by the Student Code of Conduct and Code of Academic Integrity.
Fulfill all of the academic assignments and reporting requirements of the internship course as specified by the department in order for a grade to be assigned.
Ensure that your direct supervisor is able and willing to submit an evaluation on your behalf. Some organizations have personnel policies prohibiting your supervisor from providing a written intern evaluation. If this is the case, special arrangements must be made for your supervisor to speak directly with the course instructor about your performance.
Course Goals
Students will apply academic knowledge in a real-world setting under the supervision of a professional in the related field. While developing their professional and technical skillsets, students will enhance their understanding of business practices, leadership, and critical thinking. Additionally, through engaging in the internship, students will gain work experience while earning course credits.
Course Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives will vary depending on the student's specific internship. However, at the end of the course, those who fully participate will likely be able to do several of the following and more:
Identify trends, challenges, and opportunities specific to the industry
Apply theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world scenarios, projects, and tasks
Demonstrate proficiency in industry-specific tools, software, equipment, or techniques
Analyze problems or challenges and propose solutions
Effectively communicate ideas, information, and recommendations in a professional manner
Unique Options
Search for internships or talk to us about working for someone in the Organizational Leadership program or another UAS department (marketing, commerce, etc.).
Most internships are temporary assignments that last from three months to a year. Note: Not every work assignment or volunteer situation will qualify.
Career Services Support:
The Career Services department is dedicated to helping students secure employment and internship opportunities. Get in touch!
Benefits & Challenges
Professional Experience:
Benefit: Provides firsthand exposure to the professional work environment, enhancing skills and industry knowledge.
Challenge: Internships often require significant time commitments, which can be challenging for students with other responsibilities.
Networking Opportunities:
Benefit: Allows students to build connections with professionals, potentially leading to future job opportunities.
Challenge: Internships can be highly competitive, making it challenging to secure a position.
Skill Development:
Benefit: Offers the opportunity to develop and refine specific job-related skills, improving employability.
Challenge: Depending on the specific internship, the exposure may be limited to a particular aspect of the field or company.
Application Requirements
You must apply to take this course. After application and acceptance into the course, you will work directly with a supervising professor.
Please review the Internship Policies & Guidelines document for additional information and reach out to your advisor to confirm the correct forms and documentation required.
Refer to the steps in Drafting Your Proposal for details on how to apply.