Can I use my job as an internship?

No.  An internship is not an extension of your current job.  The SCCJLS does not grant academic credit for life/employment experience.   However, your current employer may have other job opportunities that could qualify for an internship outside your current work hours.

Can I enroll in CJ 490 and CJ 491 for credit in another semester besides the semester when I am actually interning?

No.  Many organizations require that you are enrolled in CJ 490 & CJ 491 for that specific semester you are interning with them.  CJ 491 is  the co-occurring class component that cannot be completed in another semester.

Do I have to intern in West Michigan?

No.  Many students intern at a location close to where they would like to live post-graduation.  A student can basically intern at any CJ-related location – in or out of state.

Can I intern in the Spring/Summer semester?

Yes.  Many students seek internships during the summer when their schedules are more open and in a location that they plan to return to after graduation.  Summer is a great opportunity to gain professional connections in the community you plan to live in! Students can intern during any semester.

Are internships paid?                             

No.  In most cases, criminal justice internships are not paid. 

Does GVSU assist in scheduling my internship hours?

No. Scheduling Internship hours is between you and the internship coordinator/site.

Am I guaranteed employment with my internship site after completion of CJ 490/491?

No.  In most cases, interns are not employees.  The internship experience does not guarantee employment, but may lead to future opportunities and other employment connections.

Can my site supervisor terminate my internship at any point?

Yes.  Interns can be removed at any time.  Generally, prior to that dismissal there will be specific conversation with both the student and the internship coordinator.

Can I have more than one internship?

Yes.  Students can enroll for CJ 490 for 1 to 9 elective credit hours.  This number of credit hours will allow students to have multiple internships.  Each internship also requires the cooccurring seminar (CJ 491).

Will GVSU place me in an internship?

No.  Students must seek out internships on their own.  While some information will be provided regarding sites, students must personally contact the organization and complete all necessary paperwork on their own.  Treat it as if it were a “real” job search and application process.  The internship coordinator may have helpful information for internship options to consider.

Will my internship site accommodate my personal and work-related needs for time off?

Students are encouraged to treat the internship seriously.  It is recommended that once a schedule is made, the intern follows that schedule and does not ask for any changes or modifications.

Is there a dress code required for interns?

Yes. Students will be working (and networking) in a professional environment. As such, students will be required to dress and act professionally.  It is very important that you ask your internship site supervisor about appropriate dress.

Will the Academic Advising Center assist me in finding an internship?

No.  The role of the CECI Academic Advising Center and staff is to assist you in scheduling your courses to ensure that you graduate in a timely manner.  See the SCJ Internship Coordinator and Career Services if you have specific questions about internships.

If I have questions, who should I contact?

All questions should be directed to the SCCJLS internship coordinator.