Employers

Internships : Timeline

When to Post a Position

Students follow academic semester calendars when they are looking for internships. Students usually begin their search one or two months before a new semester, however, some students are still looking for internships one month into the semester as well. To maximize student response, consider posting internships at least two months before and one month into an academic semester. [CSUN Calendar]

  • Fall semester postings: June - early September
  • Spring semester postings: October - late January
  • Summer postings: February - May

Length of the Program

Internships typically last for at least one semester. If students are not receiving academic credit for their internship, students may work for longer or shorter periods of time. Remember to plan enough time for the intern to get to know the company or organization, receive any necessary training, and participate in the work environment.

Intern Hours

Interns are usually able to work part-time (10-20 hours per week) during the fall and spring semesters and full-time (40 hours per week) during the summer. Some students will be able to work full-time during the semester as well. Please specify the number of hours per week in your job description in order to locate an intern who will be able to serve the needs of your organization.

Employer Benefits

  • Gain office, project, and department support
  • Introduce fresh ideas and talent
  • Promote workforce diversity
  • Develop connections with potential employees
  • Reduce recruitment and on-site training costs by hiring interns for full-time positions
  • Increase job satisfaction and retention rate for potential future employees

Student Benefits

  • Gain marketable experience in their career field
  • Clarify goals and learning objectives
  • Apply academic knowledge to the workplace
  • Improve your communication skills
  • Learn about general work functions
  • Experience organizational culture
  • Establish connections for your future career

Are You Ready for an Intern?

  • Are your internship duties appropriate for a college student?
  • How will the work apply to the intern's coursework?
  • Are the duties and responsibilities for the intern challenging and of value?
  • Will you provide appropriate resources (computer, phone, desk) for the intern?
  • Will you provide adequate supervision for the intern?
  • Have you researched and established compensation for the intern?

Contact:

Internship Coordinator
Janice Potzmann
(818)677-2387
career.internships@csun.edu