Internships and other hands-on experiences help you apply what you’re learning, build skills, and prepare for future career opportunities. Apply early — many opportunities open 3–6 months in advance.
Land Hands-On Experience
Not sure where to start?
- Structured, semester-based experience → Internship
- Short, paid project (5–40 hours) → Micro-Internship
- Funded development opportunity → Fellowship
- Undergraduate research → Research Experiences
- Virtual career try out (1-5 hours) → Job Simulation
Internships
10–12 week structured experiences during a semester or summer.
Often paid hourly and best when connected to your major or career interests.
Find on Handshake
Micro-Internships
Short, project-based work (5–40 hours) that supports a company’s operations.
Paid a one-time fee upon completion.
Find on Parker Dewey (external page)
Fellowships
Short programs offering one-time funding for professional development or research.
Find through NSFeP
Research Experiences
Undergraduate research assistant positions at universities or research sites.
May be paid and focused on academic or scientific inquiry.
Find through the U.S. REU program (external page)
Job Simulations
Free, short (1–5 hour) project experiences designed by companies.
Unpaid, but recognized by employers.
Found on Career Experiences with Forage (external page)
Job simulations are helpful if you’re unsure about committing to an internship or micro-internship.
Earn Academic Credit
Many hands-on experiences may be eligible for academic course credit.
To earn credit:
- Obtain approval from your department chair.
- Allow the Career Center to establish a partnership with the site.
- Enroll in the appropriate fieldwork/internship course.
- Allow time for processing (typically 6 weeks before enrolling).
If you’re invited to interview for an experience, inform your faculty and the Career Center right away.
Review the Road Map for Academic Credit
Get Support
Prepare for Your Internship Search
- Review résumé, cover letter, and interview resources to strengthen applications before you apply.
- Attend employer and internship-focused events listed in Handshake.
Student Appointments
- Choose Jobs & Internships in Navigate LA
- Select Student Life & Wellness to find the Career Center
Follow us on Instagram (external page)
Call: 323.343.3237
Email: [email protected]
Visit: Between the Student Health Center and the University Gym
Hours: M-Th, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and F, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.