NACE’s Guide to Internships

What is NACE’s Guide to Internships?

NACE’s Guide to Internships is published by NACE — the National Association of Colleges and Employers — the leading professional organization connecting college career services with employers.

According to NACE, an internship is a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a professional workplace setting, across in-person, remote, or hybrid modalities. Internships provide students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience, develop social capital, explore career fields, and make connections in professional fields.

The guide covers everything students need to know about internships — what qualifies as a legitimate internship, what to expect, and why they matter for your career. NACE research has demonstrated that internship experiences are avenues to increased skills, expanded networks, and enhanced social capital, and offer direct pathways to job offers and jobs.