School of Journalism and Strategic Media students are required to complete a practicum
or internship to add a professional learning experience to class skills. A practicum
is usually completed at on-campus organizations, such as Sidelines, WMOT-FM or MTSU Athletics. Internships are placements with professional organizations
such as advertising or public relations, newspapers or magazines, television or radio
stations, hospitals, or graphics and web firms. You are not guaranteed an internship
or practicum by the School of Journalism and Strategic Media. Just like your job search
after graduation, landing a practicum or internship is an early step towards eventual
employment.
Look for practicum or internship opportunities with companies or media organizations
you already know about. The School of Journalism and Strategic Media receives postings
from employers regarding internship opportunities but a review of a company website
or a telephone call can help you identify the proper contact for an internship. Ask
your advisors or SoJ faculty for suggestions. Have the practicum or internship approved
by the School of Journalism and Strategic Media and obtain a permit to register for
internship credit. And, remember to add the class to your schedule!
What to complete prior to registering:
- Secure an approved internship
- Complete and submit the internship application and supporting materials
- Complete and submit the learning agreement
What to expect from an internship
- A work environment that treats you professionally
- Tasks that are meaningful and relevant to your training and career expectations
- The tasks you complete may include some routine office duties. Pay attention to what
you’re doing. Your goal is to learn about the organization and the people working
there.
- A supervisor/mentor at your place of employment
- A work schedule that is agreed upon by you and your employer
- An evaluation at least once during the semester by your supervisor. You are encouraged
to discuss your progress with your supervisor.
- A grade at the completion of the internship and successful completion of the course
requirements. Practicum and internship students earn a Pass or Fail final grade.
- Payment, if any, from your employer as established in the initial internship or practicum
offer. Be aware that some internships are unpaid.
What is expected of you
- Professional behavior in the workplace: arrive on time and dressed appropriately for
work
- Act in accordance with MTSU and School of Journalism and Strategic Media policies,
rules and regulations (this includes policies governing academic integrity, sexual
harassment, or non-discrimination)
- Communicate with the internship coordinator regarding aspects of the internship/practicum
To receive a passing grade
- Register for the internship/practicum course
- Complete all the course requirements in the syllabus
- Attend meetings with the internship coordinator as needed and scheduled.
What happens if you don’t receive notice you’ve been selected for the internship until
after the semester begins?
- Try to complete as much of the approval notice before the semester begins. If the
selection comes after registration ends, you will have an option to register for an
accelerated term practicum or internship experience.
- We do NOT award practicum or internship credit after-the-fact.
Hiring, Firing and Quitting
You are governed by the hiring, firing and quitting practices of your internship provider.
Once you have accepted an internship, you have committed to complete the required
number of hours during the semester for which you have registered. If a problem arrives,
contact the SoJ internship coordinator.
You represent yourself, the School of Journalism and Strategic Media and MTSU during
your time as an intern. Act in accordance with MTSU policies, rules and regulations.
Registration Policy
Check the dates and restrictions in the MTSU Course Schedule. Register early to avoid
late registration fees.
Grade of Incomplete
You may receive an incomplete as your grade for the internship or practicum course
if you do not finish the placement hours or reports by the time grades are due. An
Incomplete will become an F if you do not turn in your final work.
To register for an internship or practicum, the School of Journalism and Strategic
Media representative will look for the following items
Yes |
No |
Internship/Practicum application |
Yes |
No |
Resume AND cover letter |
Yes |
No |
Learning agreement form |
Yes |
No |
Student has upper division standing |
Yes |
No |
Internship or practicum placement approved by internship coordinator |
Contact Information
Dr. Katie Foss
Leann McBride
Director | School of Journalism and Strategic Media Internship Coordinator
615-494-7747
615-494-7998
Katie.Foss@mtsu.edu Leann.McBride@mtsu.edu