Internships in Communication
Turn classroom learning into real-world experience. Build your network. Launch your career.
An internship in Communication is one of the most valuable experiences you can have at UB. It lets you apply what you’ve learned in the classroom, build your resume, make professional connections and confirm (or reshape) your career goals.
Learn about:
- Apply communication skills in real-world settings
- Make professional connections for references and networking
- Explore different career paths and industries
- Strengthen your resume and portfolio
- Develop confidence and professional polish
Our students have interned with organizations across industries—from PR firms and media companies to healthcare providers, nonprofits and sports and entertainment agencies—in cities across the U.S. and beyond, including Canada, England, India, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.
Before you can apply for an internship, you must:
- Be a junior or senior Communication major
- Have completed 60 credits
- Hold a minimum UB GPA of 2.0 and a Communication GPA of 2.5
Plan ahead! Meet with the Director of Internships at least one semester before you want to intern. (For major cities like New York, Chicago or LA, start six to nine months in advance.)
Here's how to get started 馃憞
- Complete the Internship Application, Self-Evaluation and Force Registration forms.
- Bring an updated Academic Advising Report to your meeting.
- Plan 45–60 minutes for this discussion.
- Search our online database (after approval) or find your own.
- Contact potential sites, interview and confirm duties.
- Focus on gaining "hands-on" professional experience (not just clerical work).
- Complete a Scope of Activities with your site supervisor.
- Return the signed contract and job description for approval before you begin work.
- The Director of Internships will register you after approval.
- Be sure you’re enrolled by the drop/add deadline.
Internship credit is based on hours worked:
- 1 hour of credit = 45 hours on site (1 UB general elective credit)
- 2 hours of credit = 90 hours on site (2 UB general elective credits)
- 3 hours of credit = 135 hours on site (1 COM elective course)
- 4 hours of credit = 180 hours on site (1 COM elective course plus 1 UB general elective credit)
- 5 hours of credit = 225 hours on site (1 COM elective course plus 2 UB general elective credits)
鉁� You may apply up to 6 credits toward the Communication major.
鉁�&苍产蝉辫;Paid internships can count for credit with prior approval.
鉂� No credit for past internships or without prior approval.
During your internship, you will:
- Read and follow all course materials in UB Learns
- Complete an online interview assignment
- Submit a business report and self-evaluation
- Ensure your supervisor submits an evaluation
All materials must be submitted by your contract deadline to pass the course.
COM 496 is graded on a Pass/Fail basis. (Passing will not affect your GPA; failing will.)
鉁� Schedule an internship consultation
鉁� Register for COM 496 before drop/add ends
鉁� Get the contract approved before starting your internship
鉁� Complete all course assignments
鉁� Submit final paperwork and supervisor evaluation
Ready to apply your skills, make connections and stand out to future employers? Let’s get started!
For more information, please reach out!
