An international internship is a work experience located outside the United States. The work is usually with a company, government or non-government entity, a research group or institute or some other organization allowing hands-on experience in a student’s major area of educational concentration or career interest. 

International internships are usually full-time placements for a matter of weeks to about 18 months. Internships occur during the summer or for one semester.

International internships do not include credit hours toward graduation unless the student arranges an independent study with a UM faculty member. Compensation is negotiated between the student and the employer.

Students who undertake international internships should work with the Engineering Career Resource Center (ECRC) to set specific learning goals and monitor progress as the internship advances. Make sure to schedule an appointment with the ECRC to obtain and start drafting your Learning Plan. You may schedule an appointment by calling 734-647-7160 or e-mailing ecrc-info@umich.edu. Once your Learning Plan is complete, please submit it to the ECRC. More Learning Plan resources including a template and sample plan are available in the Quick Links.

What is the value of an international Internship?

• Engineering careers are becoming increasingly international in their scope and areas of responsibility. Many college graduates will become “domestic internationals” when they enter the job market. These employees must negotiate foreign cultures as part of their everyday jobs in the United States. Participating in a work abroad experience builds the intercultural awareness needed for professional success – no matter where you work.
• According to a RAND Corporation and National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) survey, employers’ citied cross-cultural competencies as one of the four major sets of criteria they use when hiring graduates for a global job market. International internships help students appreciate and adapt to cultural differences and gain exposure to the history, social/business practices and interpersonal relations in a different country.
• An international internship allows you to greatly enhance your language skills.  Language proficiency can be a differentiating competitive advantage as you move forward with your next career steps.
• Students who incorporate international experience into their education develop independence and flexibility - transportable skills that global companies are looking for.  An internship can help you enhance your resume and position you as a preferred candidate when you look for a permanent position.
• An international internship allows you to gain professional experience in your field of interest and test whether this area makes sense as a long-term career choice.
• The process of researching, selecting and successfully completing an international internship helps you build the skills that you will use in finding a permanent position after completing your degree.
• International internships can open significant opportunities to build a network of contacts with industry professionals, peers, advisors and others who can be of help throughout your career.
• Finally, an international internship can provide great opportunities for personal enrichment, travel and fun!