The internship project is an integrative experience. The project first requires learners to analyze their career goals and needs . Based upon that assessment, each develops a personal set of learning goals and skill development objectives. This way, course work can be applied in a real work setting, building on prior experience and building toward the learner's career and professional goals. The internship project is individually designed to expand each learner's scope as a professional in a major way, either through undertaking a major new venture or through experiencing a new role under direct supervision of a more senior person.
Learners can obtain an internship either within or outside of their own organization.
Under special circumstances, arrangements can be made to remain in a current position. However, the goals of the internship experience are to utilize new skills, gain new perspectives and understanding, and to evaluate the experience in terms of increased knowledge and achievement of professional learning goals. Prior to enrollment in the five-credit internship course, learners must have completed most of their other curriculum requirements. Also learners should have completed the Self-Assessment and Internship Planning and received the approval of the program coordinator or faculty advisor. Applied Research Project Option Learners with extensive experience in training and development who have demonstrated the full breadth of roles and competencies have the option of completing an Applied Research Project.