Internships

Being a biologist is not like taking a biology class. Advocating for the environment is not like taking an environmental politics class. Working in a gallery is not like taking an art class.

Classes at COA are as rigorous and real as possible. But there’s no substitution for getting out into the world and learning by doing. Internships give you a chance to do just that.

All COA students complete either a 440-hour or a 320-hour off-campus internship. This lets students explore career options, network and make connections, and learn skills that cannot be learned through coursework alone. Students do internships at businesses and companies, non-profits and schools, and in research labs in the US and around the world. You will work with faculty and staff to find an internship that is a good match for your educational and career goals.

Most students do their internship during the summer after their second or third years, but you can elect to do your internship during the school year if you wish.

More information about internships, including help finding and applying for work experiences, can be found on the Internships and Career Development page. The internship office maintains an active database of organizations, alumni mentors, and contacts to help students find internships.