Internships

Gain skills, knowledge and practical experience by working in a professional-level capacity

Niwot Ridge Ptarmigan

Overview

The Undergraduate Internship program offers students the chance to apply and further develop their skills and knowledge and to gain practical experience by working in a professional-level capacity for a government agency, research lab, planning group, advocacy organization, or other groups that solve problems and develop policies. The training gained and the contacts made become an invaluable asset in obtaining later employment. Academic internships are for credit and may not be paid. Noncredit internships are also possible, but are not coordinated through ENVS.

The Center for Resource Conservation, Eco-Cycle, Sierra Club, the City of Boulder, the U.S. Geological Survey, and Camp, Dresser, & McKee are all examples of the program's sponsors.

Eligibility and Application Process

Environmental Studies majors are eligible. Students must complete an Internship Interest Form that provides information regarding courses completed, academic standing, specific interests and skills or experience. ENVS Internship Faculty Sponsor Dale Miller reviews the application and meets with students to begin the process.

Deadlines

Students are encouraged to seek internships early. The internship class may be added at any time up to the add/drop deadline. However, most desirable internship postings are filled quickly.

Work Requirements and Course Credit

Generally, intern positions are available on a first-come, first-served basis provided students have sufficient coursework background. Available positions are listed in the Environmental Studies office and under the Positions tab on this web page. Students may also locate their own host agency. Intern positions are available only on an unpaid basis.

Students participating in an internship are under the direction of the supervising agency. The minimum time required is 10 hours per week for the 16 week semester in order to earn 3 units of course credit. Students may do two 3-hour internships, but only 3 units of course credit will count towards major hours. The student's grade in the course is heavily influenced by the work supervisor's evaluation of the student's performance and activities. The Faculty Sponsor makes the final determination of the grade.