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Ampler Campus, Temple University

Academic Services  

Externships

What is an externship? How do I get my employer placement for the extern program?
Who should participate in the program? When should I apply?
What degree requirements does the extern program fulfill? Will I get paid for an externship?
What semester does the credit count towards? What are my responsibilities as a student extern?


What is an externship?

An externship is similar to an internship; however, the program only lasts for two weeks. It is usually offered during the winter break and students are able to earn either 2 or 3 credits for successful completion of their work experience and academic assignments. Students are required to complete eight full work days at an employer site and also attend two full-day career related seminars. 

Who should participate in the program?

The extern program is open to all Temple students who have a 2.0 or higher grade point average and will have completed 15 semester hours at the start of the program. It is designed to aid students in making informed career decisions based on practical experience and is a great opportunity for students who would like to try out a career field or get experience in a field they plan on obtaining a degree in.

What degree requirements does the extern program fulfill?

Students who are accepted into the extern program will be registered for Topical Studies 1285, which is a Liberal Arts course.  The credits are considered Liberal Arts free elective credits (non-business). Students need to check with their academic advisor to be sure the credits will be applicable towards graduation. Students from the School of Communications and Theater will be unable to apply the credits earned from this program towards graduation.

What semester does the credit count towards?

The Topical Studies 85 course will count as a Spring semester course; therefore students need to be aware that if their total number of credits including the extern credits equals 18 or more, the student will be charged $345, plus fees per credit. 

How do I get my employer placement for the extern program?

When students complete the application they will indicate preferences/suggestions for possible placements. The career coordinator and the student will work together to find a suitable placement for the program. Students are not permitted to complete the program at a company/organization in which they currently or previously worked since the goal of the program is to provide students with a new experience. Students always have a say in their placement and would be able to decline a placement if it did not coincide with their career goals. Placements are never guaranteed.

When should I apply?

Applications for the program are available at the start of the fall semester. They can be obtained from the Career Development Office in West Hall Room 109. Ask the office staff for assistance. Students will be contacted for an appointment once the application is received. 

Will I get paid for an externship?

Externships are non-paid, but offer a wealth of other opportunities that make participation worthwhile. 

What are my responsibilities as a student extern?

Student responsibilities include:

  • Complete the Extern application and submit it to West Hall Room 109.
  • Complete the interview process.
  • Design a resumé and have it critiqued by the Extern Coordinator.
  • Participate in generating a list of possible placements.
  • Accept the placement and sign the student waiver and consent form.
  • Gain advisor approval for participating in the program.
  • Call the employer-sponsor within 5 days of notification of placement.
  • Arrange schedule with employer-sponsor and submit to Career Coordinator.
  • Buy the textbook and complete the class assignments.
  • Report to the employer-sponsor for 8 days or approximately 64 hours.
  • Report to a class seminar for 2 days, approximately 16 hours.
  • Comply with all rules and regulations of the sponsoring employer.
  • Complete and submit all class assignments.         
 

For additional information, contact 267-468-8200.