Internship and Work Experience Programs for Students
Participating in an internship or other work experience program during your academic program can help you test out career options, apply classroom knowledge, grow transferable skills, develop your strengths and interests, and create new connections in the community.
There are a variety of work experience programs available to you depending on your department, faculty, and degree program. Some of these programs are arranged through the faculty and some are arranged through the Career Centre. Many are flexible and paid.
Work experience programs
ALES Mini-Internship Program (AMIP)
Apply your education to a real life setting and see what it’s like to work in the Agriculture industry. These 3-day opportunities are offered twice a year during reading week. Please note the ALES Mini-Internship Program is an unpaid work program.
Graduate Student Internship Program (GSIP)
Current Masters and PhD students from all academic programs can gain valuable professional experience through paid, meaningful internships in the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors.
International Student Summer Employment Program
Develop your skills through a summer job on campus if you are a full-time undergraduate international student paying the U of A differential fee.
Non-Profit Board Internship Program (NPBSIP)
Learn and experience how boards operate, develop leadership and decision-making skills, and make meaningful connections within the local community.
Other U of A Work Experience Programs
Experiential Learning Directory
Can't find a suitable program? Search the U of A's new Experiential Learning directory to find the right program for you.
View OpportunitiesFactors to Consider with an Internship
Money
Will you be paid or unpaid? Some industries have normalized unpaid internships, and some academic programs have practica requirements that are unpaid. It is important to understand your role, know your employment rights, and learn about all the options before you commit.
Academics
Will you get academic credit or a notation on your transcript? Is the credit pass/fail or is a mark given, and who determines this mark? Is the credit important to you or is it a requirement of your academic program?
Eligibility
Are you confident that you have met all the requirements? For example, do you need to return to school after the experience? Are additional courses or training necessary? Are there other special qualifications or requirements, such as speaking a particular language or having access to a vehicle and a valid driver’s licence?
Weekly Schedule
Is this a full-time or part-time position? How structured or flexible is the schedule? Do you have any other commitments that may conflict with this new role?
Location
Is the position in-person, remote, or a hybrid? If there is a requirement to attend in-person, s the location local or international? How do you plan on getting to the job and how long will the commute be? If the position requires you to relocate, is this feasible for you? Some employers may offer living expenses or support with employee-relocation
Length
Work experience programs can range from a few months to years in length.
Employers
For information about internships, co-ops, and work experience programs, visit the Employer Information about Internship and Work Experience Programs page.
Students
Career & Professional Development