Description: An internship is a unique learning experience that integrates academic studies with practical work experience.
Process: To start the process, the student should check with an Academic Advisor for the most up-to-date list of programs for which internships are available. Generally, a student may participate in any internship as long as the prerequisites for that internship are met. For example, a BSAD student may apply for a marketing internship as long as the student meets the prerequisite requirements for the marketing internship. An international student on an F-1 visa is eligible only for an internship in their major area or graduate coursework.
With proper completion of requirements, a student may earn between one (1) and four (4) hours of major area, university elective or graduate coursework credit, as determined by the Academic Supervisor (program chair or designee). (See page 21 for guidelines in determining the number of credit hours that can be awarded.) Tuition is charged based on the standard undergraduate or graduate tuition rate. Undergraduate internships are listed as a 15-week course. Graduate internships are listed as 6- or 12-week courses. The internship dates are not required to align exactly with the trimester schedule.
Definition of Terms
- Academic Advisor - The student’s assigned Franklin advisor on academic matters.
- Program Chair - The head of an academic program
- Academic Supervisor - The designee from the academic program who will help guide the student through the internship.
- Internship Supervisor - The person assigned by the employer offering the internship who will supervise the student through the work of the internship while on the job.
Requirements: Prerequisites vary depending on the internship field. To apply for an internship, undergraduate and graduate students are required to have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 and 3.0, respectively. See individual prerequisites in the current Academic Bulletin under Course Descriptions. The Academic Supervisor may choose to adjust the requirements to accommodate a student with extenuating circumstances.
Throughout the internship the student is encouraged to treat all people with respect without regard to age, religion, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, immigration status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or familiar status, disability, veteran or military status and be committed to following ethical guidelines and laws concerning confidentiality and professional practice as prescribed by the employer.
Getting Started: The student will consult his/her Academic Advisor for guidance through the process of applying for an internship. The Academic Advisor will also provide contact information for the Academic Supervisor who will be responsible for the student during the internship.
At least one week prior to beginning internship employment, the student must have completed all steps required for approval as described in this Internship Manual and be registered for internship credit. Credit will not be given for (a) work begun before approval of the internship, (b) work already completed or (c) for current employment.