Internships

Why is the Policy Internship important here at the School of Public Policy?

This needed prerequisite for graduation is more than just a requirement. The minimum 240-hour Internship allows you, the student, the occasion to take the methods and theories learned in the classroom and to apply this knowledge in a real-world, non-textbook setting. It also allows for you to build your network and creates a potential employment opportunity upon graduation. It is highly recommended that you exceed the minimum 240-hour requirement so that you can have a meaningful practical experience. You are strongly encouraged to choose an internship within your specialization(s) or areas of interest. Approved agencies may include local, state, or federal government; nonprofit organizations; private sector; or an international experience in a non-U.S. setting. Most importantly, once you find an internship of interest, it must be approved by the Program Services Manager for Professional Development & Alumni Affairs prior to you beginning the internship.

Students Exploring International Internships

In the interest of preserving their safety and security, students at the School of Public Policy are not permitted to travel to countries for which the U.S. Department of State has issued Travel Warnings, even if the warning only provides details on a specific city or region within the destination country. Students are also not permitted to travel to locations in which Pepperdine University has issued its own travel warnings, or against the direct instruction of Pepperdine staff. Locations to which travel is prohibited may include an entire nation, a specific region within a nation, a city, or a specific area within a city. Such warnings will be given to students on a timely basis and will be reviewed frequently. A student may petition for a specific, one-time exception to a travel ban through their program coordinator, contingent upon consideration and approval by the Executive Vice President and the Provost. Students who fail to receive special approval and travel to locations with a Travel Warning from the U.S. Department of State will receive sanctions, which will likely include dismissal from the School of Public Policy. Students will be responsible for paying all canceled travel costs. Additionally, it is the student's responsibility to update their emergency contact person(s) on Wavenet.

University International Travel Policies

If you need help with your internship search or have additional inquiries, please contact the Program Services Manager for Professional Development & Alumni Affairs at 310.506.4775