CESC Majors Internship : College of Education : UMass Amherst

All students in the Community Education and Social Change major are required to complete a 120-hour internship (equivalent to 3 academic credits). This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience aligned with students’ future career goals while reinforcing and enhancing academic coursework in the Education major. Through this experience, students will develop valuable professional skills and gain practical experience in their chosen field of interest.

Students choose from a variety of placements when it comes to their internships. Some select environments they are already familiar with but take on a new role, while others seek a completely new experience. We encourage you to pursue an internship that allows you to develop your skills, expand your knowledge, and apply your interests in a professional environment. This is a great time to explore possibilities for your future!

Eligibility

Academic coursework completion of at least 45 credits
Internships can be completed during the academic year (fall/spring) and may also be completed during winter/summer terms
You may choose to engage in more than one internship experience, with completion of at least 40 hours in one experience
You may complete up to a maximum of 9 credits for the internship requirement (40 hours = 1 credit)

Approval of internship and enrollment in EDUC398C

Once you have identified a potential internship, you will complete the Experiential Learning Request form in Spire. You should not begin your internship until it has been approved. If you start your internship prior to completing the Experiential Learning Request form, those hours will not count towards the required 120 hours.
Students will be enrolled into EDUC 398C ( asynchronous internship course) during the semester in which they are completing their internship experience. If you plan to complete your internship during the summer or winter session, you will be enrolled and pay per credit, during the respective summer/winter session. Please review the following information for this scenario:
- Please refer to the University+ webpage (under Registration Fee and Individualized Study Fee) regarding costs for Summer/Winter practicum (internship) credits.
- Complete the Experiential Learning Request form in Spire
- Activate your Summer or Winter enrollment appointment
During the EDUC 398C course, you will be asked to engage with the cohort and submit a few assignments.

More information about assignments and due dates will be shared in Canvas once you are enrolled and the course begins.

Internship Expectations

Students are asked to keep track of a weekly Time Log that should be physically signed by your supervisor at the completion of your internship.
During your internship, you represent both yourself and the College of Education. The following areas outline our expectations for success:
Professionalism:
- Maintain a positive attitude, dress appropriately for your setting, and demonstrate respect toward supervisors, colleagues, and the community you serve.
Willingness to Learn:
- Approach new experiences with curiosity and openness. Be receptive to feedback and use it to strengthen your skills.
Initiative:
- Take an active role in your work. Seek opportunities to contribute, ask questions, and go beyond minimum requirements when appropriate.
Communication:
- Communicate clearly, respectfully, and promptly with your site supervisor, peers, and faculty. Notify your supervisor if issues or scheduling conflicts arise.
Dependability:
- Be punctual, meet deadlines, and follow through on commitments. Consistency builds trust and reflects your professionalism.
Reflection and Growth:
- Use reflection to connect your internship experiences to your coursework and career goals. Demonstrate growth in your knowledge, skills, and self-awareness.
Confidentiality and Ethics:
- Respect the privacy and confidentiality of all individuals and organizations you work with. Always follow professional and ethical standards.