Internship Program

At the College of IST, internships are more than a resume builder.

They are a core graduation requirement for most undergraduate students. By partnering with the College of IST's Office of Career Solutions and Corporate Engagement, your organization gains access to highly motivated students who are eager to contribute, learn, and solve real-world challenges.

Why host an IST intern?

• Built-in demand for internships

  Most IST students must complete a for-credit internship (minimum 240 hours) to graduate—creating a consistent pipeline of candidates actively seeking opportunities.

• Industry-ready skillsets

  Students bring experience in data analytics and visualization, cybersecurity, software development, AI and machine learning, and human-centered design and UX.

• Flexible engagement models

  Internships can be full-time or part-time; in-person, hybrid, or remote; and can be offered during fall, spring, or summer semesters.

• Build your future workforce

  Many employers use internships as a primary recruiting pipeline for full-time hires.

Internship Program Overview

What qualifies as an IST internship?

To meet academic requirements, internships must:

• Include at least 240 hours of work
• Be completed with one organization
• Align with the student’s academic program
• Provide meaningful, hands-on experience

Internships do not need to be labeled “internships”—project-based roles, co-ops, or relevant part-time/full-time positions may qualify.

Your role as an employer

Partnering with IST is simple and flexible. Employers typically:

• Provide a defined role with clear responsibilities and learning outcomes
• Assign a supervisor/mentor to guide the student
• Verify the internship for academic credit (quick online confirmation)
• Offer feedback on student performance

There is no formal approval process required to host interns—our team supports both you and the student throughout the experience.

How to Hire an IST Intern

1. Post Your Internship

   Share your opportunity through Nittany Lion Careers (Penn State’s recruiting platform) and via your direct partnership with IST's Career Solutions team.
   

2. Engage with Students

   Enhance your visibility by attending IST career fairs, hosting info sessions or recruiting days, and connecting with student organizations.

3. Hire and Mentor

   Once you select a candidate, confirm their internship details for academic credit, provide a meaningful project or work experience, and support their professional growth through mentorship.
   

Internship Formats That Work

Opportunities range from startups to Fortune 500 companies to government agencies, reflecting the breadth of IST talent. Employers have successfully hosted IST interns in roles such as:

• Cybersecurity analyst
• Data/business intelligence analyst
• Software engineer/developer
• UX/UI designer
• IT consultant

View the IST Internship Database

Partner with Career Solutions

The Office of Career Solutions and Corporate Engagement serves as your primary partner in building a strong internship program. We can help you:

• Develop internship job descriptions
• Promote opportunities to targeted student populations
• Align roles with academic requirements
• Build long-term recruiting strategies

Questions? Contact us.

Career Solutions and Corporate Engagement

careers@ist.psu.edu

(814) 865-4509

Office Website