Writing an Internship Description (2024)

Before writing an internship description, ask yourself the following questions to help structure your internship program:

In some cases it may be worth asking if an internship is the best route for your company/organization. If you do not have an appropriate supervisor or time to train an intern you may need to ask yourself if your opportunity an internship or more appropriate as a job? Here are some tips to help determine which opportunity type is the best fit for your goals.

InternshipJobPrimarily for training purposesPrimarily serves and supports a business needHas specific learning objectivesIs not essential to business operations
Is essential to business operations
Does work that helps generate revenue for the businessOffers pre-professional tasks and training for current college studentsEmployee brings expertise & professional experienceFor current college studentsCollege level experience needed only
Is an extension of academic experience and connected to curriculumIs expected to hit the ground running
Skills are developed in professional environment
Intern shadows staff & business activitiesMay also manage projects, staff, clients
May assist with routine, menial, administrative, production work or as staff for peak times or eventsSkills developed are transferable to other workplacesIntern is closely mentored by staff with expertise in internship area (similar to a teacher-student relationship)

Employee has enough expertise to manage responsibilities and needs minimal guidance
Works independently and/or as a part of a team

Feedback is given to facilitate learning processIntern meets professionals and begins building a professional networkMust be located onsite at an organization business locationMay work onsite or remotely

Short term with a fixed start and end date
Future employment is not mentioned or promised

May be full time, part time, freelance, contract, as needed by employer