Study Abroad Internships

• Why intern abroad?

• What is an international internship?

• What internships are available?

• What type of credit and course equivalent is earned?

International Academic Programs (IAP) is offering students the exciting opportunity to intern abroad for academic credit and gain real world experience for their career.

Why intern abroad?

In a survey by the American Council on Education, 86% of companies reported a need for managers and employees with greater international knowledge in the decade ahead. Corporate leaders say that graduates must demonstrate that they can work in diverse teams internationally.

An international internship is a unique way to gain professional experience in an exciting global setting. Much more than sorting files and making copies, these internships will allow students to make a meaningful contribution to their company or organization. The benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Meaningful and challenging practical work experience with an international focus

• Developing close working relationships with business professionals who can serve as contacts for job opportunities, provide references, and write strong letters of recommendation needed for the future academic and employment opportunities

• The development of cross-cultural skills and “cultural intelligence” needed by a growing number of employers

• Great preparation for behavioral and situational interview questions when students start applying for jobs

What is an international internship?

An international internship is a work experience combined with coursework for academic credit. International internships provide students with the opportunity to gain experience in the field, determine if they have an interest in a particular career, and create a network of contacts.

What internships are available?

Students can pursue a study abroad program with an internship option. This allows them to take classes while also completing an optional internship for academic credit:

Argentina, Buenos Aires (Academic Year, Fall, Spring)
Australia, Perth (Fall)
Belgium, Brussels (Academic Year, Fall, Spring)
Ecuador, Quito - Tropical Conservation (Spring)
France, Angers (Summer)
France, Montpellier (Spring)
France, Paris (Spring)
France, Rennes (Academic Year, Fall, Spring)
Germany, Bonn (Spring)
Germany, Freiburg (Academic Year)
Ghana, Legon (Academic Year, Fall, Spring)
Hungary, Budapest (Spring)
Israel, Jerusalem (Academic Year, Fall, Spring, Summer)
Kenya, Nairobi (Academic Year, Fall, Spring)
Russia, Moscow (Academic Year, Fall, Spring)
Russia, St. Petersburg (Academic Year, Fall, Spring)

Students can also pursue a program that focuses mainly on the internship experience. These types of programs revolve around the academic internship. Some offer classes in addition to the internship experience:

Australia, Canberra - Arcadia Parliamentary Internship (Fall, Spring)
Australia, Sydney - Arcadia Internship (Fall, Spring)
Botswana Community Library Internship (Summer)
England, London - Arcadia Internship (Fall, Spring, Summer)
England, London - Hansard Parliamentary Internship (Summer)
India, Pune - Alliance Internship (Summer)
Ireland, Dublin - Arcadia Parliamentary Internship (Fall, Spring)
Scotland, Edinburgh - Arcadia Parliamentary Internship (Fall, Spring)

Internship placement is determined by the student’s area of focus and what the program has to offer. Placement can happen just before a student departs or upon their arrival in the foreign country. To find out more about the specific internships, including eligibility requirements, visit the program’s webpage (above).

What type of credit and course equivalent is earned?

Students participating in an internship will receive credit for the academic work that is completed over the course of the internship. Internship participants are required to complete an internship syllabus form which will be used to determine the appropriate UW course equivalent. The number of credits vary depending on the program. More information about internship credit and course equivalents can be found on the program’s webpage, or by contacting the Study Abroad Resource Center.

Intern Testimonial

LeeAnn A.
Nairobi, Kenya
Fall 2007

“Studying in Meru, Kenya I took initiative while interning with AIDS mobilization. In my past experiences in the United States, I received a lot of direction and guidance in my projects. In Kenya, however, my internship was what I made of it; taking the time and effort independently led to one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

Intern Testimonial

Jamie H.
Quito Tropical Conservation
Spring 2009

"During my semester on the Tropical Conservation program, I worked with Equilibrio Azul, a marine conservation organization located in Puerto Lopez on the coast of Ecuador. My experience there was eye-opening, and unforgettable. We spent most of our time participating in research projects involving shark and sea turtle conservation. It was a hands-on experience that provided me with a deep appreciation for the ocean and marine life. This has been my grandest adventure yet; it was truly a unique experience."