Saint Martin’s University School of Business
internship program

Program details • Opportunities • Download forms

Why should I consider a business internship?

In today's competitive world, having a formal business education background is a distinct advantage. However, successfully completing a well thought out business curriculum is just one of many skills that students need to develop. The ability to work effectively in a business environment is another primary skill that requires development. Internships provide that environment within a structured setting. Thoughtful internship preparation offers students the opportunity to experience various career options while applying core business and interpersonal skills necessary to grow and succeed in their chosen field. These objectives are achieved while you earn university credit. Many students report that they have received employment offers from their internship sponsors while others have received outstanding recommendations to add to their resume.

Am I eligible for an internship?

Internships are electives and as such require academic planning as well as faculty approval. You must be a student in good standing (a 2.0 or higher GPA). Where in the opinion of your academic advisor, your stated internship assignment and goals require knowledge/skills developed in university courses, such courses must be completed prior to receiving internship approval. You should have upper class status (Junior/Senior). You will be required to obtain the council and approval of your academic advisor and internship coordinator. If you are not a designated business student, you will be required to obtain a business faculty advisor for the internship and follow all other requirements as stated.

How do I start the internship process?

Is this what you want to do? The minimum commitment is to complete 50 contact hours with your employer for every credit requested, up to six (6) credits with any one employer. A total of 9 credits are allowed with two more employers. The work hours begin and end within the corresponding academic term. This is a contractual commitment not subject to receiving an incomplete grade! That is, your employer must certify you have completed the necessary work hours as part of the requirement to receive a passing grade. Intern termination for cause will result in a failing grade. There is a credit fee for internships as there is with any other course. Internships are considered to be elective credits. Your total term credits including internships should not exceed 18 credits. As an internship employee, you must engage in frequent communication with your employer. You represent SMU within the business community. Internship experiences are most successful when a true partnership exists between the employee and the employer. Make your internship experience a "win-win" experience by understanding the employer's needs as we as your own. Make it a regular practice to ask your employer how you are doing. Don't hesitate to keep your internship coordinator informed as to your progress.

How do I find a job?

Finding a suitable job that enhances your learning experience is your responsibility. The position you seek can be voluntary or paid. Your employer is responsible for 100% of your compensation. However, receiving compensation is not an internship requirement. The SMU School of Business maintains a listing of current internship/job offerings. The Career Center has listings as well. Many students network with peers that are completing their internship. If the internship employer requires a resume or other background information, please ask your internship coordinator for assistance. Bottom line, you cannot depend upon someone else to find you an internship. You need to experience the labor market yourself and seek meaningful internship employment that meets your educational needs as well as those of your employer.

What paperwork needs to be completed?

Go to the download forms page.

Please type your internship objectives and your employer's job description on the internship contract form. Work with your internship coordinator to develop measurable and meaningful objectives. Work with your internship coordinator to develop measurable and meaningful objectives. Your work toward completing those objectives will be the subject of your eight (8) page reflection paper due two weeks prior to the end of the internship.

Obtaining signatures:

Multiple signatures are required on the internship contract. You will be required to obtain these signatures in order before you will be allowed to sign up for course credit. There is a sequence you must follow in obtaining contract approval, see the flow chart for that sequence. You will be required to obtain the signature of your academic advisor, internship coordinator, employer and yourself prior to registration for the course. Your internship coordinator will register you for the course following final approval by the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Term paper:

Your term reflection paper addresses the progress you have made in obtaining your stated objectives. Objectives could include, applying what has been learned in the classroom or learning how to work effectively with others. Objectives you list on your contract should be achievable within the scholastic term.

Internship final evaluation:

Your employer will be asked to rate your performance on this form. You are responsible for assuring your employer completes and submits your evaluation to your internship coordinator. Your employer certifies the number of contact hours you have completed during the internship period (the scholastic period). You must meet or exceed the required number of hours stated in the contract (from 50 to 300 depending on the credits requested).

Grading criteria:

Your employer evaluation submitted to your internship coordinator will determine 70% of your internship grade. Your internship reflection paper will determine 30% of your internship grade.

Possible penalties:

Late submission of the internship contract may result in failure to obtain course approval. Late submission of the employer's evaluation and/or the internship term paper may result in a failing grade. Termination of employment prior to completing the number of contract hours may result in a failing grade. Please refer to the internship web page for details.