Cooperative education and internships can provide a unique opportunity for students to gain real-world experience and make professional connections within their field of study, prior to graduating. The Office of Career Services assists students in connecting with employers and community leaders.
What is an internship?
Co-op and Internship programs are academic experiences that are designed to give students hands-on experience working in a field that is closely related to your major. An internship can offer you the opportunity to:
Learn more about Cooperative Education and Internships (PDF)
How many hours will I work?
Internships come in both part-time and full-time positions depending on the employer.
Part-Time
10-15 hours per week
160-175 hours per semester
Full-Time
30-40 hours per week
600 hours per semester
Can I earn academic credit?
Most departments offer credit for approved internships. To get approval, all parties (department, work supervisor and student) must agree on the expectations, commitments and learning outcomes of the work experience.
Will I be paid?
Payment is different for every internship. It depends a lot on the place of business and whether or not it is considered to be a full-time, or part-time position. The U.S. Department of Labor provides policies and regulations in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
As of January 2018, the FLSA requires 'for profit' employers to pay employees for their work. However, if the student intern does not fall under the 'employee' guidelines, then he or she is not entitled to any wages.
To determine if the position is considered as paid-employment or an unpaid internship, view the U.S. Department of Labor's Fact Sheet (PDF).
While there are credit-approved internships through Lander's EYE Program, students should also extend their reach by searching for opportunities across the country and researching businesses they are interested in working for.
Internet Searches
Businesses looking to create a new internship position should complete the Employer Internship Form (PDF) and return it to Lander's Internship Coordinator, Courtney Carpenter.
Email: ccarpenter1@lander.edu
Fax: (864) 388-8998
By postal mail
Lander University
CPO 6052
320 Stanley Avenue
Greenwood, SC 29646
Questions?
Call us at (864) 388-8404