Internships are a short-term experiential learning opportunity that allow students to gain hands-on, work experience and practical skills alongside professionals in a career field they are interested in. They typically happen during the summer semester after sophomore or junior year, but experiences can vary.
Co-ops (Cooperative Education) are a structured way to combine academic knowledge with work experience. Co-ops are a longer experience as students alternate academic semesters in class with full-time work semesters. They typically occur after completing sophomore year and usually are a summer semester of work preceded or followed by an additional semester of work, or more alternating school and work semesters.
Get Started with Internships & Co-ops
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When to start looking for an internship or co-op
Internships: Most students typically do internships during the summer after their sophomore or junior year, but experiences can vary. Co-ops: Typically occur after completing sophomore year and can be a summer semester of work preceded or followed by an additional semester of work, or more alternating school and work semesters.
When it comes to looking for opportunities, the earlier you start looking, the more choices you’ll have.
- Larger organizations tend to post summer internships/co-ops early during the fall semester, and will interview and send out offers by late fall semester.
- Smaller, local organizations will post opportunities in the late fall or early spring semesters.
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How to find an internship or co-op
Handshake
Online career network for students to find internships and first jobs out of college. Positions locally and across the US are geared towards current students and recent graduates. Sign in with your MyU Internet ID & Password.
STEM-Fest & Career Fairs
The UMD Career Center hosts the STEM-Fest Career Fair once a semester on campus, open to students of all majors and years in school.
SCSE students are also able to attend any career fair the Career Center hosts on campus or collaborates with other local and regional schools to host. Find the full list of upcoming career fairs on Handshake or the Events page.
Online Posting Sites
LinkedIn | Indeed | Glassdoor | Internship & Job Search Listings
Post Graduate Survey
Find lists of organizations that have hired UMD students in your major for internships.
Organizational Websites
If you have an organization in mind you’d like to work for, search organization websites directly for openings.
Professional Associations
Consider exploring opportunities through professional associations and organizations in your field of interest.
Other Internship & Job Search Strategies
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How to get credit for your internship or co-op
Depending on your major, you may be able to get academic credit for participating in an internship or co-op. You need to register and get approved prior to starting the experience.
The number of credits (typically 1-2 per experience), credit requirements, and involvement vary by SCSE department. Reach out to the SCSE Internship Coordinator to learn more about how to receive credit for your internship or co-op experience.
Note that some employers offering internship opportunities (commonly in Biology or Earth & Environmental Science) may require you to get credit in order to participate in the internship.
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How to apply to internships & co-ops
The UMD Career Center is a great free resource for helping you prepare application materials. Meet with the Career Center or take advantage of their resources for assistance with:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Will I get paid for doing an internship or co-op?
Most STEM internship and co-op positions offer competitive compensation, and as an SCSE student, your skills and knowledge should be utilized at paid internship sites. Employers may offer hourly compensation or a stipend. Please note that some UMD departments require positions to be paid in order to receive academic credit for participating.
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Can I apply for an internship or co-op even if I don't have any/much experience?
Yes! These experiences are designed for students who are just starting their careers and may not have extensive experience. Employers are often looking for enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a strong work ethic. Work with the UMD Career Center to put together application materials that highlight relevant coursework, projects, skills, and transferrable experiences to help you stand out.
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Which experience should I do - research, internship, or co-op?
Choosing between an internship, co-op, or research depends on your career goals and interests. As a SCSE student, you could do a combination of all three.
- Internships introduce you to career paths by providing practical work experience, industry connections, typically lasting a summer or a semester. Ideal for those looking to enter the industry directly after graduation, particularly in roles such as engineering, IT, or data analysis.
- Co-ops offer extended work periods, often alternating semesters of full-time work with semesters of study, providing deeper industry experience. Great for roles in software development, mechanical engineering, or systems engineering, where hands-on experience is highly valued.
- Research allows you to dive deep into academic or practical problems, develop critical thinking and technical skills, and work closely with faculty. Research experience is particularly beneficial if you are considering graduate school or for careers in scientific research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, R&D, and academia.
Pay structures for these experiences vary. Consider what aligns best with your career aspirations and current needs.
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What's the best way to approach/ask my supervisor about getting hired full-time after an internship or co-op?
Internships & co-ops can be a great pipeline to a full-time job. Of 2022-2023 SCSE grads, 133 students who completed an internship reported receiving an offer of full-time employment.
- Demonstrating enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, initiative, professionalism, and commitment during your internship or co-op can help you increase your chances of receiving a full-time offer.
- To approach this conversation with your supervisor, schedule some 1:1 time to share your positive experiences, highlight contributions you've made during your internship or co-op, and express your desire to continue with the company.
- Ask about potential opportunities and the best steps to stay on their radar for future openings.
If you want additional assistance, reach out to the SCSE Internship & Strategic Partnership Coordinator.
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Who can I reach out to in SCSE if I have questions or need help with internships or co-ops?
Schedule a time to meet with Lorena Lane, the SCSE Internship & Strategic Partnership Coordinator. You can also reach out by email.