Consumer Science majors in both the Consumer Affairs and Personal Finance concentration may elect CS 601 credits as an option to fulfilling certain degree requirements. A student may earn up to 8 credits while enrolled over several semesters.
Per policies/procedures governing the CS internship program, it is important to note the following:
1. An internship is highly recommended, but CS 601 credits are not required.
2. CS 601 credits are not given retroactively for work that has previously been completed.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What kinds of internships are offered to Consumer Science students?
Consumer Science students work in a variety of fields. There are many positions with consumer advocacy; jobs in marketing, advertising and sales; product development; financial planning and financial counseling. Students work for state government, businesses, non-profit organizations and trade associations.
How do I begin my search for an internship?
The Consumer Science Department has well-established internships with which they work. Every spring and fall semester students may attend an Internship Consortium where Internship supervisors present information about the internships and meet interested students. It is at this meeting that you can decide which internship interests you the most. After that event, each supervisor selects the candidates they would like to interview for their internship. Once the interviewing is complete, the companies make their decisions, and the interns are hired.
What if I find an internship on my own?
Students who seek independent internships are welcome to apply to the department to see if they would qualify for credit. Students may pick up applications from the Internship Coordinator. Applications are typically due the Friday before classes begin, but check with the coordinator for specific dates.
How do I earn credits?
Credits are earned by the number of hours worked at the Internship in one semester. Just as the University has requirements for how many hours a class must meet and how much homework is assigned, an internship must adhere to similar guidelines. Each credit of an internship requires 60 hours of work. A maximum of 4 credits may be earned in one semester. 1 credit=60 hours, 2 credits=120 hours, 3 credits=180 hours, and 4 credits=240 hours.
When can I take an internship for credit?
Internships can be taken for credit all year long: Summer session, Fall and Spring semesters. It is likely you can earn more credits during the summer because there is more time to put in hours. This factor depends on each individual internship. Reminder: If you take an internship in the summer, it is just like taking a class and you will have to pay summer session tuition.
For more information regarding the Consumer Affairs / Personal Finance Internship Program, contact the Internship Coordinator:
Jayme Mitchell
Human Ecology Building, Room 135
1300 Linden Drive
Madison, WI 53706
608.265.6467
jmitchell4@wisc.edu
