Frequently Asked Questions - Students
1. I don’t have any experience, can I still apply for an internship?
Yes, an internship is the opportunity needed to gain the experience you need in starting your career. Some internships will require some advanced skills.
2. How many internships can I do?
One internship can be used as an upper division elective towards your degree. Additional internships can be done and are encouraged, however they cannot be used as a second elective. Accounting students cannot use their internship as an elective substitute, however the 3 units of credit counts towards the requirement to sit for the
CPA exam.
3. Will I get paid?
Employers determine their ability and resources to pay interns. If the position is paid it will be noted near the position description.
Just as a word of advice, seek out internships that will assist you in your career path.
Internships are not part-time jobs but rather learning experiences. If you think of an internship as an applied experience and not a job the pay will become less of an issue.
4. Can I set up my own internship?
Yes, you have contacts with companies and people who could provide a great internship experience for a business student. The requirements will be the same—the internship must be a progressive learning experience that will last 150 hours minimum and be under the supervision of an experienced mentor or supervisor.
The proposed internship must be approved by the Internship Director. To have a proposed internship considered for credit submit an internship proposal form to the CSB Internship Director.
Note: A student cannot complete an internship for a family member or a family business.
5. Can my current job count as an internship?
In most cases you cannot count a position you are already in for internship credit. If the company you are working for can offer you a new type of position or project related to your option there is a possibility this could count. Please see the Internship Director for consideration.
6. Do I have to take an internship for credit?
Yes, it is preferred that students who use the internship program register for
3 units of credit. Enrolling in units will assure that you will have the guidance and direction of the Internship Office if the need arises. The Internship Program also conducts evaluations of all internship students and internship worksites. The only way to collect that data is to keep track of students and worksites. This can only happen if the student is enrolled in the course and in contact with the Internship Office on a regular basis.
7. What if I can’t complete 150 hours in a semester?
An internship can be spread over the course longer than one semester. The student will receive an incomplete for the semester they enrolled in the course. Once all requirements are completed the grade will be changed to credit.
