Internships
Graduate internship programs are offered in several departments. A graduate internship is a short-term work assignment (3 to 9 months) in residence at a company or other external organization that forms an integral part of a student's educational program. For international students, if not a mandatory part of the degree program, credit must be awarded. Where credit is involved, academic advisors will assign grades and may require written reports detailing the internship's accomplishments. Students pursuing internships at not-for profits and government agencies typically pay tuition themselves.
Two options are available for scheduling students' work and study activities: parallel and alternating formats. Under the parallel format, students work full-time during the summer. The alternating option permits cycles of full-time work and full-time study. Departments may allow students to take a course or courses during the full-time work cycle. Consult department descriptions for more information.
The work assignment is determined by the company or organization that owns the work product with the approval of the faculty advisor. The company or organization owns the work product of students on internships. Students must use care in signing agreements to ensure they do not limit their rights beyond the duration of the internships. It would be reasonable, however, that the student agrees to hold confidential material so designated for a reasonable time beyond the internship. WPI's Intellectual Property Office will provide guidance to students contemplating internships regarding such agreements.
Typically, corporate-sponsored internships are paid. Where credit is included, the corporation typically pays the tuition. Payment for internships must be at a rate comparable to full-time employment in that field at that educational level. Payment is typically made directly by the company to the student intern as an employee. With prior approval of the Provost, arrangements may be made for the company to pay WPI and WPI direct pay the student. Payments for internships sponsored by not-for-profits and government organizations may be waived.
Students participating in graduate internships must be registered in a specific course. An internship will appear on the transcript either with or without credit. Students may not participate as interns at their place of employment.
Maintained by webmaster@wpi.eduLast modified: May 31, 2007 16:02:18