Internship FAQs

Am I eligible for internship credit?

To be eligible for credit you must:

• Be a junior or senior level student
• Have a 3.0 GPA or faculty permission
• Have an updated resumé and a working portfolio
• Possess open Studio Electives
• Have program Chair approval

I have a part-time job that is related to my major. Can I get credit?

Yes. However, to secure the program chair’s approval, a job description must be submitted.

Are international students eligible for internships?

Yes, if the student holds an immigration status of F-1, if the internship opportunity is related to his or her declared program of study, and only if the student is receiving credit for the experience. F-1 students who are enrolled full time for one year can be considered for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and may work for pay. Kendall will verify the student’s status before the internship begins.

How do I find an internship?

Check out Handshake by logging in to Ferris360 and the Intern in Michigan site. Faculty may receive requests from local companies and alumni. Networking with classmates who have completed internships, contacts made at Career Days, research and target market opportunities and community service projects It may be a current PT job that related to your major. Many of the larger corporations will have internship listings on their web sites.

Are internships required?

Kendall does not require internships, but highly recommends that you gain experience related to your major. More than 50% of our students secure some form of internship whether it is for credit or the experience. Either way, you are building your resumé and portfolio and will have an experience that will give you an advantage in the workforce.

If I want credit for my internship, what is the required time commitment?

The time commitment will be determined by how many credits you choose to apply to the internship. These are the minimum number of hours:

• 3 Credits: 9 hours a week for 15 weeks = 135 hours
• 6 Credits: 18 hours a week for 15 weeks = 270 hours
• 9 Credits: 27 hours a week for 15 weeks = 405 hours

If the internship is a paid experience, you may choose to put in more hours than required.

Are internships paid?

Most internships are paid experiences. You are at a point in your education where you have secured solid skills and will be a productive part of the team. Many non-profits are not in the position to pay but are looking for interns to volunteer their talents. Consider non-paid internships especially if it can offer perks such as networking, publicity, recognition or even a job offer. Internships can pay from minimum wage up to $15/hr. Please read your legal rights as an Intern.

What type of internship would be best for me?

Look for an internship in your major that will provide you with an experience that will boost your resumé and act as a stepping stone to your career of choice. Reviewing the internship description, asking questions at the interview with the supervisor, and talking to former interns of the company will give you the information you need to make an informed decision about the opportunity.

When is the best time to do an internship?

What makes Kendall’s internship program unique is that when an opportunity arises, you don’t have to wait for the beginning of the term. You can start an internship at anytime during the academic year or semester, even after the “drop and add” deadline. And you can apply the credit to future terms if necessary. Please see the General Advising Counselor for more information.

Who can I contact at KCAD regarding the internship process?

Contact your faculty advisor with any questions you may have.