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Academic Internships

What is an Academic Internship?

An academic internship is a high-impact learning experience that engages students in meaningful opportunities, integrating knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a business, non-profit, or government setting. A high-quality internship includes collaborative community partners that provide mentoring, to help students achieve personal and professional growth, and skill development to gain a competitive advantage in the global workforce.

These focus on professional skill-building and career exploration:
  • Reflective Journals: Students write weekly entries connecting their internship tasks to
    academic concepts.
  • Portfolio Projects: Compile a portfolio of work completed during the internship, with
    analysis of learning outcomes.
  • Supervisor Evaluations: Feedback from internship supervisors, sometimes paired with
    a self-evaluation.
  • Learning Contracts: Agreements at the start outlining goals, tasks, and academic
    objectives.
  • Midpoint and Final Presentations: Oral or poster presentations summarizing
    experiences and lessons.
  • Case Studies: Students write or analyze real cases encountered during the internship.

Receiving Academic Credit for your Internship 

You can receive academic credit for your internship by enrolling in a department or college level internship course. Course information and requirements are set by each department and/or college.

Select your college below to learn more about internship opportunities in your college

College of Arts and Letters

College of Business and Public Administration

College of Natural Sciences

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences 

College of Education

How to Find an Internship

Students should begin their search by contacting their department. Many departments provide lists of organizations where students can intern. Students can also access resources from the Career Center

National and State Internship Programs

• HACU Internship Program – Paid internships with corporations or federal agencies.

• Pathways Internship Programs – Internships with the U.S. Department of State.

• National Park Service Youth Programs – Internship and volunteer opportunities.

• Capital Fellows Programs – Public policy fellowships in CA state government.

• Gaither Junior Fellows Program – One-year research assistantships.

• BLAC Internship Program – 12-week paid internships in advertising.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I have a job. Can I use my job for my internship experience?

Check with your internship faculty to see if your current employment can be used to receive academic credit. Typically, the work will need to be aligned with your major and you will need to develop professional or skill development learning goals and objectives beyond your daily work responsibilities. Your work supervisor will also need to approve the use of your worksite as an internship for the purpose of your internship course.

How do I receive academic credit for my internship?

You can receive academic credit by enrolling in a college or department level internship course. Speak with your academic advisor to identify the appropriate internship course for you. Check the CSUSB Course Catalog to see if your department or college offers an internship course.

How do I find internship opportunities? 

Depending on your major, some departments have a list of approved internship sites. Visit your department’s internship website or speak with a college or department internship director/coordinator. You can also utilize internship resources from the Career Center.

Who can assist me with applying to internships?

Schedule an appointment with the Career Center for assistance with internship applications, resume and cover letter writing, and interview prep.

What CSUSB coordinated internship programs can I participate in? 

Please contact the department of your major for additional information on any CSUSB coordinated internships.

Can I count internship hours before or after the semester?

This depends on your department policy. Please check with your internship faculty or department/college internship coordinator to confirm if hours outside the semester count toward your course.

My job duties at my internship site are different than my offer letter.  What are my options? 

Have a conversation with your site supervisor, referencing your job description and learning goals. If no changes are implemented, discuss the matter with your internship faculty.

What do I do if there is an issues at my internship site?

For emergencies or safety concerns, follow the site’s emergency protocol and call 911. For harassment or discrimination, report to your instructor and the CSUSB Title IX office. For miscommunication or general issues, speak with your supervisor or seek support from your faculty.