Preparing for the 21st Century
Internship experience is a key component in the preparation of graduate students for the 21st century workplace. Internships are on-the-job work or research experiences that provide hands-on learning opportunities for students in which to apply knowledge in real workplace settings. Participating in the everyday activities of a business or profession provides insights that students don't gain in the classroom. Such experiences
- can extend the student’s academic learning
- enhance the student’s professional skills
- better prepare them to succeed when they enter the job market
Internship experiences, which are available in a variety of businesses, government agencies, and private organizations, can enhance students’ future employment opportunities by providing them with relevant skills and work experience, and a potential network of professionals in their career field.
Procedures for Internships
Students should work with their faculty advisor to identify potential internship opportunities that fit within their program of study. Students are required to enroll for a minimum of two graduate credits during an internship, which allows the student to continue participating in WSU’s student health insurance plan, and provides access to WSU libraries and other resources.
Many graduate programs offer a 600-level, variable-credit course that could be used for an internship experience. International students must consult with the Office of International Programs for employment authorization before committing to an internship experience.
Students should complete the Graduate Internship Approval Form and submit it to the Graduate School as soon as the internship is arranged, but no later than one week before the beginning of the internship semester. Students can continue their health insurance coverage either in the GSA plan or the regular plan on a self-pay basis. The program may also pay the student’s health insurance and provide other support during the internship.