Program Information

The School of Business Internship program is a free program provided for the benefit of students and employers.

Characteristics of the academic, for credit internship

  • A three-way arrangement between employer, university, and student
  • A specific number of hours of work will be completed by the student
  • The student shall submit a report at the culmination of the internship, and student *and* employer shall both submit separate, confidential evaluations

Requirements of the academic, for credit internship

  • Internship must be clearly defined in structure and who the student's supervisor will be
  • An internship learning plan should be defined
  • Time frame and planned training objectives must be defined  

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the benefits of an internship (on behalf of employer)?

  • Internships offer an effective way for organizations to locate and train motivated students to fill immediate needs, as well as create a pipeline of talent for a future work force.
  • Employers can seamlessly convert student interns to full-time employees who can be immediately productive. Cost-per-hire is significantly decreased.
  • Organizations are able to assess each student's "fit" with their organization and receive a preview of the student's ability.
  • Organizations enhance recruitment and retention outcomes, hence, improve the bottom line.
  • Interns bring new and innovative ideas to an employer.
  • Interns help promote your organization on campus.
  • Intern programs can help develop a strong bond with the university community.

What are the benefits of an internship (on behalf of the student)?

  • Gain confidence in abilities
  • Apply course work to work
  • Determine what industry/job is the right fit
  • Earn money
  • Receive academic credit
  • Increase attractiveness as a job candidate
  • Make invaluable contacts

What are my responsibilities as an employer?

  • The internship should use and expand on the student's educational background.
  • Employers are responsible for supervising students. Regular meetings should be set up between the student and an on-site supervisor.
  • The organization should have a person who can answer questions that the University, or a student, may have about the position.
  • The organization needs to provide a supervisor who will be able to assist the student(s) with questions and concerns.
  • The student should be included in meetings and other activities required by employees in the same department.
  • Employers should provide an evaluation of the student's progress regularly and at the end of the internship.
  • Employers should notify the Gonzaga internship coordinator of any changes in employment (i.e. job description change, time commitment change, etc.)

What are the attributes of a quality internship?

  • The job assignment should be reflective of the student's field of interest and level of study.
  • Internships should be challenging. They should allow for the utilization of problem solving skills, time management skills, and organizational skills.
  • A progressive increase in responsibility should accompany a student's demonstrated ability.