Internship Information
Internships give you a chance to apply what you're learning in the classroom to real-world situations. You'll gain hands-on experience, build confidence, and make valuable connections in your field — all while exploring whether a particular career path is the right fit for you.
Quick facts:
- Internships may be paid or unpaid
- Duration is typically at least one semester (either concurrently with classes or separate)
- Depending on the organization and time of year, internships may be full-time or part-time
- You may be able to receive academic credit if your internship aligns with an academic program at OCC
Discover how internships can help open the door to your professional network and even lead to a permanent position after graduation!
Internship Application Process
Interested students should follow these steps to begin the internship process:
1. Meet with Department or Program Lead
This meeting helps to review any department- or program-specific requirements regarding a potential internship.2. Seek a Placement Site
Work with your department or program lead or Career Services to find a placement site for your internship.3. Prepare Your Resume
Contact OCC Career Services for help building your resume or to practice for an internship interview.4. Search and Apply for Internships
Handshake is OCC's career platform that helps connect students and employers. Students and employers can use Handshake to search for internships or post opportunities for OCC students.Get Started With Handshake
5. Receive Academic Credit
Once a position is found, and depending on your program and internship requirements, notify your department or program lead. This will allow you to register and ensure you receive academic credit. The process for registering and receiving academic credit varies by each academic program.If your academic program does not require an internship be completed for credit, you can always complete a not-for-credit internship on your own.
Depending on the academic program, your for-credit internship may or may not meet physically in class. However, there may be assignments for you to complete throughout the semester. Keep in contact with your department or program faculty to ensure you are meeting all the appropriate deadlines.
International Students and F1
All OCC students who have F-1 student visas are required to consult with the International Student Office regarding the CPT and OPT immigration requirements to participate in the internship program.
Learn more about International Students and F1
For Employers
Learn how partnering with Oakland Community College through internships can strengthen your workforce, streamline recruiting, and bring fresh perspectives to your organization.
Internship information for employers
How to Succeed in an Internship
- Attend all orientations and read all available onboarding documents
- Observe everything: what people wear, how they interact with each other, etc.
- Ask questions if you are unsure of anything
- Get to know everyone, even those outside your department; this is a great way to learn more about the organization and possibly develop a mentor
- Dress for the job you want and be observant of what others wear, especially those in leadership
- Learn new skills and walk away having learned something new
- Ask for projects and responsibilities
- Take the initiative and look for things that need to get done
- Ask for feedback regularly, including an evaluation at the end of the internship
- Stay connected after the internship as it may lead to a permanent, full-time position
Contact Information
Email Career Services
Phone: (248) 232-4730
Service Hours:
Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location:
Auburn Hills Campus
B Building - 1st floor