paper showing benefits of internships
Why do an internship?

Internships provide students the opportunity to directly observe and experience human resource and labor relations work and to see the connections between the concepts and ideas discussed in class and the workplace. Students earn college credits, develop valuable contacts and enhance their academic record, making themselves more attractive to a range of employers.

When are internships available?

Students must have completed at least 8 credits of study in the MHRLR Program before obtaining an internship. Internships can be taken in any semester (Spring, Summer or Fall.) Placement dates may overlap semesters.

What kind of work do interns do?

Interns are directly involved in all aspects of human resource and labor relations work. Past work experiences have included:

  • salary and classification analysis
  • affirmative action planning
  • ADA planning
  • employee handbook development
  • EEOC complaint investigation
  • employee relations, benefits and job evaluation assignments
  • contract negotiation participation
What types of organizations provide internships?

Student interns have access to a variety of employers in both the public and private sectors. Organizations that have provided internships include:

  • American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees
  • Cedar Lake United Educator’s Council
  • City of Milwaukee
  • Dresser Industries, Inc.
  • U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
  • Johnson Controls, Inc.
  • Journal-Sentinel, Inc.
  • Klein, Dub & Holler, Ltd.
  • MRA-Management Association, Inc.
  • Milwaukee Center for Independence
  • National Labor Relations Board
  • S.C. Johnson Wax
  • Siemens Power Corp.
  • Snap-On-Tools Co.
  • Tecumseh Products Co.
  • Time Insurance Co.
  • U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs
  • Western Industries, Inc.
  • Wisconsin Centrifugal
  • Wisconsin Education Association Council
How many hours are required for an internship?

Interns are required to work a minimum of 50 hours per credit (150 hours per 3 credits). Scheduling of hours is arranged between the intern and the supervisor.

Are internships paid?

Some internships are paid with rates normally ranging between $8.00 and $10.00 per hour. Others, while unpaid, can offer valuable work experience, important contacts and excellent future employment opportunities.

How is course credit applied to internships?

Students register for the MHRLR internship prior to starting work. Students can sign up under Ind Rel 921 or Bus Adm 899 for a three credit internship. In some cases, a student may wish to do six credits, in which case the student undertakes two separate internships, each for 3 credits.

What is the grading procedure?

Papers describe and apply the work experience to the ideas and concepts addressed in the classroom. Copies of documents prepared are usually attached to the paper. Students are advised to keep a daily diary of their experiences. This does not have to be submitted, but will be valuable in preparing the paper. See the Internship Paper Requirements.

What is required for the paper?

Internship Paper Requirements

Length:

Approximately 10-15 pages (double-spaced)

Content:

Introduction:
  • include introductory comments
  • provide brief description of organization/department (approximately 1/2 page in length)
Body of Paper:
  • describe specific job duties
  • relate how certain tasks connect to course work completed
  • show how assignments contribute to overall goals of the organization/department
Conclusion:
  • include recommendations for organization/department
  • connection with or contribution to career goals
  • discuss overall experience
Attachments:
  • attach relevant documents, when appropriate*
  • *Note: Attachments are considered supplements that add to or clarify the paper. They are not included in the 10-15-page length requirement.
Grading Procedures:
  • internship paper – 75% of grade
  • supervisor’s evaluation of work – 25% of grade

Papers describe and apply the work experience to the ideas and concepts addressed in the classroom. Copies of documents prepared are usually attached to the paper. Students are advised to keep a daily diary of their experiences. This does not have to be submitted, but will be valuable in preparing the paper.

Who provides information on internship procedures?

The Assistant Director provides information and helps facilitate internship placements.