Internships

What is it?

Internships can take many forms -part-time or full-time experiences, paid or unpaid. Due to this, it’s understandable that there is confusion about the difference between an internship, part-time job, or volunteering.

The major distinction is that an internship has a qualified on site supervisor and you are not employed at the organization.

An internship should apply what you have learned in the classroom to a professional setting and, as a result, you’ll gain skills, and/or in-depth knowledge of a particular industry.

How long is an internship?

An internship is usually the length or equivalent of an academic term, may be part‐time or full‐time, paid or unpaid. You can do an internship for credit in Fall, Spring or Summer semester.

This work/learning experience is overseen by the internship coordinator and by a designated employee of the organization.

Can I get credit?

Yes, you can but you don’t have to if it doesn’t make sense.

For-Credit Internships

Internships run each semester, but cannot run between semester (start in one semester but end in another).

1 credit equals 45 hours of work during the semester. You can sign up for one internship a semester ranging from 1-3 credits. A 3-credit internship would mean a commitment of 135 hours during the course of the semester (about 9 hours a week).

You can get up to twelve 400-level credits (COMM 493 or COMM 493U) applied towards your degree at Boise State.

• The first six credits count as upper-level credits towards your major
• The second six credits count as general upper-level credits towards graduating

Non-Credit Internships

Non-credit internships are arranged independently by you. While these experiences are led by you, we encourage you to seek positions that include a learning agreement outlining: what skills and knowledge will be gained, projects to be completed during the internship, the duration of the internship, identification of a professional supervisor and/or mentor, and clear expectations about compensation and hours.

Communication vs. PR?

Many students get confused about the difference between a Communication and a PR internship. The most important difference is the type of class credit you need for your degree.

PR majors and minors generally need at least one (1) 3-credit PR 493 internship in order to fulfill their degree requirements. COMM 493 does not count towards this degree.

For more information about PR and Media specific internship go to the Department of Media Internships webpage or contact MF Casper.

If you are a Communication major or minor and you get a PR internship, you should sign up for COMM 493 internship credits.

Where do I find one?

Handshake is THE BEST and easiest place to find internships related to your interest, major, or industry. Through this online tool you have access to employers that want to hire Boise State University students.

Also, check in with the Communication Internship Coordinator for any recent internship opportunities.

If you haven’t already, also get to know the Career Services webpage.

What if I am not ready?

Not a problem. Check out Work U!

Work U is career preparation with a twist, giving you hands-on professional work experience, clarity on your career goals, an opportunity to be mentored, focused classroom time, and a chance to build your resume and network – all while gaining three upper-division credits. The beauty of Work U is that every opportunity is open to all undergraduate majors, skillsets, and levels of experience! If you are a hard worker, willing to learn, and want experience, apply to Work U today!

Where do I find one?

Handshake is THE BEST and easiest place to find internships related to your interest, major, or industry. Through this online tool you have access to employers that want to hire Boise State University students.

Also, check in with the Communication Internship Coordinator for any recent internship opportunities.

If you haven’t already, also get to know the Career Services webpage.