Definition

Educationally relevant work experience that integrates knowledge and theory with practical application and skill development in a professional setting. The experience includes direct supervision, learning objectives, and has a defined beginning and ending. Other internship-related terms include co-op, fieldwork, clinical experience, and practicum.

Background

Internships are among the most common and recognized forms of applied learning. The Society for Experiential Education (SEE) emerged as one of the early professional associations focused on internships and other forms of experiential student learning. As internships became more integrated into the academic curriculum, other organizations providing support included the Cooperative Education and Internship Association (CEIA), the Association for Experiential Education (AEE) and the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). NACE has developed a set of guidelines recommending that internships have mutually agreed upon goals, clearly defined learning objectives and direct supervision by a professional with relevant expertise for meaningful feedback and guidance for the student.

K-State Examples

• Fall semester coop with Cargill while enrolled in LEAD 399
• Summer internship with Boys and Girls Club
• Internship with K-State DCM while enrolled in MC 491
• Teaching internship in an elementary school while enrolled in EDEL 585
• Internship with SkyWest while enrolled in COTA 495