Career Engagement Center > For Students > Internships > Academic Credit

Academic Credit for Internships

For over 15 years, Midamar Corporation has welcomed scores of Cornell students to learn first hand the details, challenges, and rewards of what it takes to succeed in global trade and development. The enthusiasm, creativity, and initiative exemplified by our Cornell Interns is truly reflective of the spirit of the Cornell educational experience.

-- Jalel Aossey, Midamar Corporation

Internships may be full-time or part-time, may take place during the academic year or during the summer, and may or may not be paid. Although many students prefer to do an internship for academic credit and have it appear on their transcript, you may do one simply for the experience if it does not fit into your academic calendar. Both have merit and are important in the academic process.

Some Cornell disciplines require or strongly encourage internships for credit, while others do not. Check with your academic advisor to determine the needs of your particular major.

Internships for Credit

Credit bearing internships require you to have a faculty sponsor oversee the experience.
You must have completed at least nine term credits with at least two of those credits in the same department as the internship.
To receive credit, you must fill out an internship form and return it to the registrar’s office before your internship begins.
If the internship is completed during the summer, you must take a term off during the academic year before or after the internship is completed.
The internship must be directly related to the academic area of the faculty sponsor.
The internship will end up on your transcript, provide credit in your major, and provide paraprofessional experience on your resume.

Internships Not For Credit

If you do not need credit for your internship, a non-credit internship can be a good option for you.
No paperwork is required; however it is up to you to make sure this internship provides you with direct, hands-on experience in your field of interest.
Although the internship will not be noted on your transcript, a not for credit internship can still be an excellent experience on your resume.