Internships

It is Southwestern Oregon Community College's goal to provide a meaningful internship experience for every student. A successful internship combines classroom theory with practical experiences in the workplace. Internships may be on or off-campus, credit or non-credit. Internship is comprised of Field Experience (FE) and Work Experience (CWE). Field Experience is transferable credit. It is earned at 30 work hours per credit and requires a journal and term paper. Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) is Southwestern credit, earned at 40 work hours per credit and does not require a journal or term paper. You may find your own internship position, or you can work with the Internship Coordinator to place you in a position appropriate for your career choice.

Students who complete internships have on-the-job experience, which makes them more qualified and ready for full-time employment or continued education.

Benefits of an Internship

• Explore and confirm your career choice.
• Receive guidance in career expectations and demands.
• Earn credit for employment related to your major.
• Develop job skills and self-confidence.
• Locate job prospects for long-term employment after graduation.
• Develop job contacts and a work history (Internship looks great on a resume!)
• Add practical experience to classroom instruction.

Components of an Internship

• When beginning an internship, each student works with a faculty member and the employer to establish learning objectives and a plan to achieve them.
• Concurrent with the internship, students participate in an Orientation to Internship class, which is designed to evaluate personal growth and enhance the value of the internship experience to both the student and employer.