Internship Bulletin
Do I need to do an internship? Our MPA students must complete a 6-credit internship (300 hours) during their studies, unless they (1) have at least one year of professional-level experience in a public sector, nonprofit sector, or healthcare administration setting and (2) successfully complete the exemption process. You can read more in the MPA Handbook.
If you think your professional experience may qualify you to apply for the internship exemption, discuss that possibility with your advisor - he or she will let you know if your experience seems applicable. The exemption will still be contingent on your successful completion of the internship exemption process by the middle of your last semester and approval of your submitted materials by your advisor.
When do I do an internship? If the internship requirement applies to you, keep in mind you may not begin an internship until you are unconditionally admitted to the program and (typically) you have completed 21 to 24 course credits successfully. The goal is for you to have enough MPA courses complete that you can offer your organization the benefit of your new knowledge and skills -- and so you can integrate what you learn on the internship with what you have learned in the program.
How do I find an internship? Students are encouraged to seek out internship opportunities with agencies or organizations like the one you hope to work for in the future. The work you do as an intern should be professional in nature and connected to the management and administration of the organization or program - not primarily clerical or front-line client services. More information on internships and typical requirements, as well as a Google spreadsheet of internship programs, are available at the jobs and internship area of our website. Follow our Facebook page for timely updates when we hear of a new opportunity.
Can I organize and begin my internship on my own? You should not commit to an internship without discussing it with the internship coordinator. Therefore, no MPA student may sign up for internship credits without first working with the internship coordinator, Dr. Streams, and receiving approval for the proposed internship. You cannot get retroactive approval for an internship you completed without talking with MPA faculty. There are specific requirements and some paperwork to complete before, during, and at the end of the internship to ensure that you receive credit. There are also course requirements for the internship credits (i.e. keeping a log, writing a paper, receiving evaluation from supervisor, etc.) and you need to understand these in advance of starting work.
If you anticipate doing an internship in Spring 2015, contact Dr. Streams immediately. If you anticipate seeking an internship for Summer 2015 you should contact Dr. Streams in January as soon as you return from break.
