Internships
(Courses numbered 398, 498)
Qualified students may earn up to 16 credit hours of academic credit during the fall or spring semesters and up to eight credits during the summer by completing a credit-bearing internship. Each intern must complete a series of professional development assignments and an academic project in addition to the work done on site. The grading system for a credit-bearing internship is “credit/no credit;” the hours earned are not included in calculation of a student’s GPA.
The staff of the Career Development Center assists students in identifying and contacting appropriate sites and monitors progress throughout each internship. To be eligible to register for an internship, a student must meet all the requirements as stated in this catalog (see “Academic Policies” section), including completion of 28 credits with a cumulative GPA of 3.20 or higher (at the time of registration), OR completion of 56 credits with a cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher (at the time of registration).
Career Development staff will support qualifying students in their search for an internship and in the process of registration. However, students must be aware that internships are competitive and that it is their responsibility to identify and secure an internship. The College, therefore, cannot guarantee internships for every student. All internships are subject to approval by the Career Development Center and the relevant department chair. In past years, sites have included government agencies, biological laboratories, art galleries, human service agencies, and business organizations.
The internship registration process requires planning and commitment on the part of a number of individuals; therefore, students must secure an internship, identify a site and faculty sponsor, and complete the required learning agreement in the semester preceding the internship.
Special Study-Away and Internship Programs
St. Mary’s Washington Program – As part of the summer program, selected students participate in two weeks of intensive coursework on campus, an internship in Washington D.C. and receive mentoring from St. Mary’s alumni. This program is completed for academic credit though the political science department.
In partnership with The George Washington University (GWU) Graduate School of Political Management, a select group of St. Mary’s students has the opportunity to enroll in two courses in applied politics at GWU and to intern on Capitol Hill. The program is open for the spring and summer semesters.
In partnership with The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars, qualified St. Mary’s students can intern for credit in Washington, D.C. in the summer, fall, or spring semester. Internship placements are available in a wide variety of career fields.
Field Studies
Courses in several departments include field- or service-learning components as required or optional parts of their coursework. Students interested specifically in a field studies course in education should consult with the Educational Studies Department. Courses designated as having a field experience can be found in the listings of the Psychology and Educational Studies Departments, among others. The Career Development staff is available to help faculty and students with site placement for these courses.