Internships are highly regarded and recommended to any student as part of their study plan at Penn State. Students can talk to their academic advisor to share their interests and gain recommendations for planning potential internships.
If students would like to explore the option of setting up an internship there are two possible ways:
- Economics Credit or
- Liberal Arts Credits
Course Overview
ECON 395 (1-3 credits) is a credit-bearing course designed to complement internship experiences that are directly related to the field of Economics. Students will engage in academic reflection and analysis of their internship work.
Steps to Request Economics Credit for an Internship
To have your internship evaluated for possible Economics credit through ECON 395, you must complete the following steps before your internship begins.
Secure Your Internship
- Obtain an official offer letter.
- Ensure you have a clear job description outlining your responsibilities.
Complete the Internship Application
(The application must be submitted no later than the end of the first week of the term in which the internship will be taking place.)
- Provide a brief written explanation of how your internship relates to Economics.
- Attach your offer letter and job description
Submit the Internship Application
Email the filled out application to Paul Kagundu (pxk18@psu.edu) or Pam Dutko (prd138@psu.edu) or deliver it to the Undergraduate Office, 403 Kern Graduate Building
Application Faculty Review
The Economics department will review your submission and respond within seven days with one of the following:
- A notification that the internship was approved
- A notification that the internship does not qualify for Economics credits
Enrollment in ECON 395
If Approved
You will be enrolled in ECON 395 for 1–3 credits, based on the scope of your internship.
If NOT Approved
Meet with your Academic Adviser to explore whether the internship may qualify for Liberal Arts credit.