Internships

We believe effective communication requires an ability to apply theory in real-world contexts. That's why internships are incorporated directly into our degree program as a core requirement. To graduate with a communication degree, you must complete COMM 399 – Communication Internship.*

If you need helping finding an internship, talk with the internship director, Prof. Rob Pocock, or visit the Boerigter Center for Calling and Career. We also have an Internship Search Process form you can use to track your search efforts.  

*Students with a major GPA below 2.0 will need department approval to take part in the internship program. If you do not have a GPA of at least 2.0 in your communication major, you should meet with your advisor to discuss your options.

Requirements

To enroll in COMM 399, you must:

• Declare a COMM major
• Achieve at least junior status
• Complete a minimum of 12 COMM credits
• Earn at least a 2.0 GPA in the COMM major, or receive department approval
• Apply for admission (see below)

Apply

To be approved for an academic internship (COMM 399) you must complete these steps:

1. Meet all of the requirements listed above.
2. Complete the online Application for Admission to Communication Internship Program. You will need to submit a current DegreeWorks report along with your application.
3. Obtain a recommendation from a communication department faculty member by providing him or her with the link to the Faculty Recommendation Form along with your résumé.

After you're approved

The next phase is to secure an internship.

1. Once approved for the program by the internship director, you must secure an internship. Handshake lists dozens of internships that are posted by the Boerigter Center for Calling and Career on a daily basis. You can also secure your own internship via your network of family and friends.
2. After your internship is secured, request an Internship Agreement Form. The internship director will email you the form, which both you and your site supervisor must complete. Your site supervisor is the person who will serve as your “boss” for the internship. He or she must confirm that you will be working at least 126 hours during the course of the internship and that you will be assigned at least one major project worthy of three academic credits in communication.
3. Once the internship director approves the Internship Agreement Form, complete the online Academic Internship Registration Form to enroll in COMM 399.

If you haven't secured an internship prior to registration

You should complete the Permission to Register for an Academic Internship Form which allows you to enroll in COMM 099. This will hold a place in your schedule so you are still eligible for housing assignments and financial aid determinations.

If you have questions after studying this website, contact Professor Pocock.