Real-Life Learning Opportunities

Penn State's Greater Allegheny campus offers credit-bearing internships across all 10 bachelor’s degree programs, providing students with invaluable real-world experiences that complement their academic studies.

Explore the full range of degree programs available at Penn State Greater Allegheny, click here!

A Successful Internship

A successful internship is like a well-balanced three-legged stool, providing stability and value to all involved parties. Key elements include:

  1. Prepared and Dedicated Students: Students who diligently prepare for and successfully apply for internships, demonstrating commitment to learning and growth.

  2. Faculty Internship Advisors: Dedicated faculty who support and guide students throughout their internship journey.

  3. Supportive Site Supervisors: Organizations, whether for-profit or nonprofit, that welcome and mentor talented students, paving the way for their career success.

Even if a work site lacks experience in hosting interns, organizations should not hesitate to offer internships. Embracing internships opens doors to nurturing new talent and enriching the learning experiences of future professionals. The commitment of both faculty and organizations ensures the mutual success of internship programs.

Quick Checklist for Academic Internships

Employers requiring specific paperwork or contracts for internships should submit them for pre-review to the campus’ internship site supervisor at [email protected].

  • Only credit-bearing (academic) internships are recognized by Penn State. Other work-related experiences (part-time, summer employment, etc.) are valuable but not equivalent to internships.

  • Current student employment may qualify in rare cases if a distinct project is developed separate from regular duties.

  • Academic internships involve a three-way partnership among the College, employer/host site, and student, focusing on professional projects and skill application.

  • Interns typically work a minimum of 40 hours per academic credit (typically eight weeks in a 15-week semester).

  • Internships may be paid or unpaid and offered in fall, spring, and summer semesters.

  • Some employers offer hybrid learning environments for internships, similar to their employees' work setups.

  • Student-interns enroll for course credit under faculty guidance and are evaluated based on assignments integrating workplace experience with classroom knowledge.

  • A formal internship proposal must be completed and approved by the host site supervisor and faculty member overseeing the internship before it begins.