Student work experiences go by a number of different names, including internships, co-ops, and practicums. Following are some general definitions for the three. Internships An internship is typically a one-time work or service experience done by a student who has attained at least some academic preparation in a professional field. The student, who can be an advanced undergraduate or graduate student, works in a professional setting under the supervision of at least one practicing professional.
Some internships are more involved than others.
Many offer pay, but quite a few don't. Most are done for academic credit. A cooperative education experience is generally completed by a student over more than one semester. It includes work assignments related to the participant's academic and career interests. Co-op students are almost always paid, and their work is considered productive to the employer.