Internship credit is a course

When you register for internship credit, you’re adding a Pass/Fail course to your schedule:

  • You complete internship assignments and reflections during the term
  • You earn credit by completing required hours and agreed‑upon learning outcomes
  • You are still responsible for tuition and fees, like any other class

If you’re not sure how internship credits fit your degree, talk with your academic advisor first.

It Must Be Approved Before You Start

You cannot work first and ask for credit later.

  • Your internship must be approved and on your schedule before your start date
  • You, your site supervisor, and your instructor must sign the Internship‑for‑Credit Learning Agreement
  • Required hours must be completed during the term you’re registered

Time: Hours and Credits

Montana State uses a standard: 1 credit = 45 work hours.

For most Jabs internships‑for‑credit:

  • 3 credits = 135 hours during the term

You don’t need identical hours every week, but you do need a realistic plan to finish the total hours during the semester.

What Kind of Work Qualifies?

To qualify for credit, your internship must:

  • Relate to your Jabs major/option (Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, Hospitality, etc.)
  • Include substantive business work (projects, analysis, operations, client work), not just errands or generic clerical tasks
  • Have a site supervisor who can mentor you, give feedback, and complete midterm/final evaluations

In some cases, you may receive credit for work on your own business or venture, as long as a qualified supervisor (not an immediate family member) oversees your work and learning outcomes.

These three roles must be in place:

  • You (Student) – complete the hours and academic work
  • Site Supervisor (Employer or qualified mentor) – supervise you and evaluate your performance
  • Faculty Internship Instructor – oversees learning outcomes and assigns the Pass/Fail grade

The Bracken Center helps coordinate this partnership so you’re not navigating it alone.

Paid Is the Standard

  • If you’re doing productive work that benefits the organization, you should be paid 
  • Unpaid internships are rare and reviewed carefully

If you’re considering an unpaid or pay-to-participate internship (especially abroad or through a third‑party provider),talk with the Bracken Center before you commit.

Eligibility and Course Prerequisites

Each major has its own internship course and prerequisites.

Before registering, you should:

  • Be currently enrolled as a Jabs student
  • Confirm with your academic advisor how internship credits fit your degree plan
  • Make sure you meet the course prerequisites for your major

If you’ve found a great internship but aren’t sure about prereqs, the Bracken Center can help you figure out the right path.

Book a Bracken Center Appointment

We’ll do a quick check to confirm your internship is a strong fit for credit and help you tighten your tasks and learning outcomes.

Book an Appointment

Start the Internship Approval Form

You’ll need:

  • Your site supervisor’s name and email
  • Basic internship details (organization, role, start/end dates, hours)
  • A first draft of your tasks and learning outcomes
Start the Internship Approval

 

If you have questions at any point, contact the Bracken Center at brackencenter@montana.edu or book an appointment.