Basics of Internships for Students

Student Internship Handouts:

Internships 101

Internship Contract Worksheet

Additional Internship Resources for:

Employers

Faculty

Finding an Internship

Career & Employment Services can help you through the internship search and registration process. Students are not automatically placed in an internship, so you’ll need to apply and interview for internships, just like applying for a job. The application process can be competitive, so start your search early and have Career & Employment Services review your resume and cover letter to give you the best chance of landing your perfect spot.

Begin by looking on CareerLink, which will show you internships available to students in your major. If you don’t find what you’re looking for there, then identify companies you’re interested in working for after graduation. Make an appointment with Career & Employment Services to contact those potential employers.

Students may also consider utilizing their current employer for internships. In that case, at least 75% of the internship duties must be new and different from the student’s day-to-day duties in their current position.

Watch a video on how to search for an internship!

Earning Credit for Your Internship

Students must work 45 hours per credit earned. Internships are restricted-entry courses. Career & Employment Services will register you for the internship credit(s) after you complete the CareerLink information and the internship is approved. The last day to register for your internship is the “Last Day for Registering/Adding Classes” as determined by the university calendar. Students must complete an online evaluation at the end of the semester.

Internships must contain an educational component to be considered for credit. For all internships, at least 80% of the job duties must be degree-related in nature.

How to Submit Your Internship Contract

Log in to CareerLink and click “Co-Op/Internship Records” in the left column. Then select the link at the top of the page "Add Co-Op/Internship".  You will need to fill in all required fields before submitting it. The contract will then be emailed to your site supervisor and professor to approve. Once approval is received, you will be registered for the course. A notification email will let you know when you’re enrolled.

Watch a step-by-step video on how to submit your internship in CareerLink:

MSUB Internship Information

Montana State University Billings internships create educational partnerships between the university, the business community, and students. This program allows students to earn academic credit while fusing classroom learning with practical work experience.

Requirements to be eligible for academic internships:

• Have a minimum of 24 college credits within their major
• Have completed at least one semester at MSUB
• Have a minimum of a 2.0 GPA (College of Business requires a 3.0 GPA)
• Meet with faculty supervisor and obtain approval to pursue an internship

Students who do not meet all of these criteria will need approval from their faculty supervisor prior to registering to receive credit for an academic internship.

If you have questions or want more information, contact Career & Employment Services at 406-657-2168 or by email.