Get Experience: Internships

An internship (also known as experiential education) is a work experience that is either directly related to your major field of study or your career interest. Internships are an opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge under the supervision of a professional. Internships may vary from 4-40 hours per week, are paid or unpaid and typically range from 10-12 weeks during the summer or throughout the academic year.

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Benefits of an Internship

  • Gain valuable work experience to be competitive in your career and job search
  • Develop new skills while refining others
  • Apply knowledge gained from coursework to on-the-job situations
  • Explore potential career options
  • Meet and work with professionals
  • Help establish your professional network
  • Experience new work environments
  • Internships may lead to a paid, full-time or career position

Things to Consider

  • Begin your search early. It may take several months to find the right option.
  • Many internship programs have deadlines as early as fall for the following summer.
  • Some internships may require specific coursework or experience to be eligible.
  • To make yourself competitive for an internship, you can build your resume by participating in student organizations, community service and leadership activities.
  • Entering first-year and transfer students: we recommend you allow yourself at least one quarter of academic study to adjust to life at UC Davis before starting your internship. Some students find it advisable to wait an entire year.
  • A paid job can potentially serve as an internship. Schedule an appointment with an ICC advisor to assess whether your job meets internship criteria.