Internship Criteria

Internships for Credit

An internship is a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a professional setting. Internships give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields they are considering for career paths; and give employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent. These applied experiences may be paid or unpaid and, if approved and supervised by a USU academic college or office, taken for academic credit.

To ensure that an experience—whether it is a traditional in-person internship or one conducted virtually—is both educational and worthy of academic credit, the following criteria should be met: 

• Learning and Reflection- opportunities and experiences are provided which enhance learning and aid the student’s career interests; situations are created and designed which allow the intern to review and reflect.

• Goals/Objectives- There are clearly defined learning objectives. The skills or knowledge learned should be transferable to other employment settings.

• Duration- The experience has a defined beginning and end, a job description with desired qualifications, and, to enhance the benefits for both the student and employer, are generally between 8-12 weeks in length.

• Hours and Academic Credit- Internships may be part- or full-time in nature.  If a student is seeking academic credit for their internship, the required work hours/credit hours and associated coursework will be determined by the supervising academic unit or university-wide office (e.g., Career Design Center or the IOGP).

• Supervision, Feedback, & Evaluation- There is supervision by a professional with expertise and educational and/or professional background in the field of the experience. The student receives routine feedback and a final evaluation at the end of the internship by the experienced supervisor.