Internships are structured, supervised, and evaluated educational experiences that allow students to apply academic knowledge in a professional setting. These experiences help students explore career interests, develop new skills, and gain firsthand exposure to the workplace in their field of study.

To earn academic credit, students must be enrolled in an Internship, Cooperative Education (Co-op), or Practicum course while completing their internship. These are regulated by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) and have specific requirements regarding the minimum number of work hours and the relevance of the job experience to the student’s academic program.

Internships are designed to benefit both students and employers, and positions may be paid or unpaid. Students gain real-world experience in roles aligned with their academic major and career goals, while employers benefit from their skills and assistance. Employers recruit students to work on special projects, assist with daily tasks, or provide support during times of higher demand.

What sets internships apart from short-term jobs is the intentional “learning agenda” embedded within each experience. Students have defined learning objectives, and supervisors serve as mentors, offering guidance and opportunities to support professional growth.

Austin Community College (ACC) advises students to begin their internship search early, as employers often recruit 3-6 months in advance of the upcoming semester.

Visit Internships for more information.