They've seen a lot of nature shows on TV, but don't know how that translates into a career. So the internship is one of the best ways to give students an experience that allows them to synthesize the skills and theories learned in class. The more intensive, three or more credit internship requires that students experience professional levels of responsibility and independence. Some are paid and some are unpaid. It all depends on the student and the cooperating organization.
Most interns spend far more time than the minimum requirement.
Goggans requires the interns to submit progress reports, write articles for the public on their experiences, do a special project and revamp their resume reflecting their newly learned skills. Students are evaluated by a letter grade on their transcript. Ninety-six students have completed intensive internships so far. Most have been field oriented. Others have worked in educational or outreach programs in nature centers with state or federal agencies.