Internships

Experience the World of Work

Communication Studies majors are strongly encouraged to make the most of their undergraduate careers by enhancing their learning with real-world work experience in the form of an internship. Whether students find one that is paid or unpaid, internships provide them with a “sneak peek” at a variety of fields. Further, they can help students build their network, improve their resume, and learn to apply knowledge gained from coursework in a professional setting.

Eligibility

In order to be eligible for internship credit students must have:

  1. At least 60 credit hours overall with a 2.5 GPA or above.
  2. At least 12 credit hours in Communication Studies courses with a 3.0 GPA or above. The final course can be taken simultaneously with the internship.
  3. Completed the Comm Core (G100, G201, and G310). The final course can be taken simultaneously with the internship.

Any exceptions regarding eligibility must be approved by the Director of Undergraduate Studies or the Chair of the Department, in coordination with the Director of Internships. Capstone credit may not be earned with an internship.

Credit Hours

Students may receive up to 6 credit hours of COMM G491; 45 work hours equals 1 credit hour. For example, a 3-credit hour internship that lasted 15 weeks would involve, on average, 10 hours a week.

Finding an Internship

Below are some resources that may assist you in your search. One of the most useful tips is to regularly check the handshake database, which is continually updated with full-time, part-time and internship opportunities.

Resources

International Internships

Process

The internship approval process will take about 2 weeks. You must have the internship set up BEFORE the semester in which you will receive credit for it begins. Please contact Mike Polites, Director of Internships at mpolites@iu.edu or 317.278.7718 to discuss your interest in securing an internship.