Career Preparation through the CAL Excel Network

English and Film Studies majors are well-trained for success in a broad range of careers. Check out the Excel Network in the College of Arts & Letters to learn more about Career Communities, internship opportunities, and chances to engage with MSU and English alumni employed in various careers.

Internship FAQs

The English department does not arrange internships for students; it merely oversees the internship. Students are responsible for locating an internship, with the help of the Department of English advisor and faculty, the College of Arts and Letters, the Excel Network, and the Career Services Network. The Department does keep a file of previous internship requests, as does the College of Arts and Letters (located at 200 Linton Hall).

Internships through ENG 493 can take place during fall, spring, or summer. The amount of credit varies, depending on how much time is dedicated to the job weekly. A four-credit internship equals approximately 20 hours per week during a full semester; a three-credit internship equals 12–15 hours per week; a two-credit internship equals 7–10 hours per week; and a one-credit internship equals three–five hours per week.

To be eligible for an internship, a student must be an English or Film Studies major, must have completed a minimum of 15 credits in the English department, must be a junior or senior, and must gain the approval of the department (i.e., the associate chairperson for undergraduate studies).

To complete an internship, students must submit these materials to the department by the last day of classes during the semester (internship packets with more information available here and in C614 Wells Hall):

  • Portfolio of work completed on the internship
  • Weekly log of duties assigned and completed during the internship
  • Five-page reflective essay on the internship experience
  • Brief evaluation of the internship program by student
  • Employer’s evaluation of student
  • Note: These materials are to be submitted to the Associate Chairperson for Undergraduate Studies by the end of the semester in which the internship was completed, who will assign the student a numeric grade.

The internship (ENG 493) is one of several options for the requirement of a senior capstone in English. All students are encouraged to pursue internship opportunities. Discuss senior capstone options, as well as internships, with the advisor.

Students can access the internship packet here or at the English Department (C614 Wells Hall).  The packet includes the Internship Agreement Form, which must be completed and submitted to the Associate Chairperson for Undergraduate Studies PRIOR to the start of the internship.  Questions about enrollment in ENG 493 or the internships in general can be directed to the advisor.

MSU Press Internship

Interested in a career in publishing? Consider applying for the Michigan State University Press Internship for 2022-23. Applications are open now! Submit your application materials to Dr. Justus Nieland (nieland@msu.edu) by February 25, 2022. You can learn more about this internship and the application materials below.