Want to gain relevant experience and/or earn academic credit for an internship?
Follow the steps below to get started.
Finding the perfect internship takes time, so we recommend starting at least one semester before you plan to intern.
Summer and Fall 2025 internship application for academic credit is open in Handshake.
Applications are due at least 2 weeks prior to start of the semester.
For questions about internships, please email internship@pennwest.edu.
Step 1: Meet with your faculty advisor
- Does my major require a for-credit internship?
- If no, is it beneficial for me to complete an internship for academic credit?*
- How many internship credits are required or do you suggest I take? For most majors 37.5 hours of work = 1 credit
- How/when will the internship course fit in my schedule to count towards degree completion?
- Am I eligible to complete an internship based on my GPA, academic standing, courses completed, and class year?
- How do I register the internship for academic credit and what is the deadline?
*Students may complete internships for academic credit or not for academic credit. Only for-credit internships are registered as a course.
Step 2:
A) Get help finding an internship
- Learn about resources to help you find internships
- Fine tune your resume and cover letters
- Prepare for interviews
B) Complete internship application the for-credit in Handshake (if applicable)
C) Explore Funding (California campus students only)
What is the Internship Center?
The Internship Center can help:
- Explain the application process to receive academic credit for an internship
- Answer questions about internships
- Identify potential internship sites
- Provide information about the The Washington Center Program
- Manage the Rutledge Internship Award
