Internships

About the JPR Internship Program

Todd Henneman
Todd Henneman
JPR Internship Program Director

The Department of Journalism & Public Relations Internship Program integrates academic learning with professional development through on-the-job experience. All journalism and public relations majors are required to complete at least one 100-hour internship and must be concurrently enrolled in JOUR 498: Internship.

The course provides the academic structure and faculty oversight necessary to earn credit while helping students make the most of their internship experience. Through seminars, activities and reflection, students connect their workplace experiences to their academic learning, strengthen career-ready skills and prepare for their job searches. Students who complete an additional internship may enroll in JOUR 498 a second time.

Students are encouraged to apply for internships with organizations that have formal agreements with the Department of Journalism & Public Relations. Students also may find internships on their own. Regardless of which route they choose, students typically prepare and submit résumés and cover letters, providing applied practice for their job searches after graduation.

All internship hosts, except for university departments, must sign an affiliation agreement and undergo a site assessment to comply with Executive Order 1064, issued by the California State University Chancellor’s Office. As a result, all for-credit internships must be approved by Professor Todd Henneman, who oversees the JPR Internship Program.

Getting started

  • Enroll in JOUR 498.
  • Secure an internship clearly connected to your major.
  • Submit your internship for review and approval by Professor Todd Henneman, who oversees the JPR Internship Program.
  • Complete at least 100 hours in your internship.

Important reminders

  • All JPR majors must complete at least one internship.
  • In accordance with CSU policy, academic credit cannot be issued retroactively.
  • Supervisors cannot be family members.
  • Supervisors should have at least five years of professional experience.

During your internship

Students enrolled in JOUR 498 complete an Internship Learning Agreement in collaboration with their site supervisor. Supervisors also complete 50-hour and 100-hour evaluations of the student’s internship experience. All internship-related documents are completed and stored in CalState S4, the CSU’s comprehensive internship management platform.

Have questions?

Interested in hosting a JPR intern or have questions about finding or completing an internship? Contact Professor Todd Henneman.