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Certified Internship Program

Internships

The Certified Internship Program (CIP) helps students get the most out of an internship by providing a framework to enhance knowledge gained through the experience.

CIP is an online program that consists of 5 modules that are made up of assignments such as critical reflections, setting intentional learning objectives, conducting an informational interview, updating your resume, and more. We want students participating in the CIP program to finish their experience feeling confident in their next step, able to talk about the skills developed, and how these skills were developed through the internship.

The CIP is not a for-credit experience, but does satisfy the Explorations Beyond the Classroom graduation requirement and is noted on your transcript.

  • It's FREE - No tuition! No fees!
  • Fulfill your "Explorations Beyond the Classroom" graduation requirement
  • Earn a professional development certificate
  • Receive 1-on-1 coaching throughout your internship with a CIP Coordinator
  • Get a free CIP t-shirt upon successful completion of the program

Get More Info About Internships

How to Enroll

Step 1: Check eligibility

  1. Have you secured an internship?
  2. Are you a current UNCW student?
  3. GPA = 2.5 or higher
  4. Position will be at least 50 hours over 5 or more weeks

Step 2: Apply

  1. Complete the CIP Application on Handshake
    a. If you have not logged into your account yet.
  2. Once logged into Handshake, click the Career Center drop-down menu on the top right of the page and click on “Experiences” and then click “Request an Experience.” From there, you will choose the CIP Application as your Experience Type.
  3. Fill out the application

What happens next: Once your application is submitted, the CIP Coordinator will approve your application and notify you of your acceptance or if any further information is needed. Once enrolled, you will have access to the course materials via Canvas and receive further instruction.

About the CIP

The CIP does not grant academic credit. The CIP does satisfy the Explorations Beyond the Classroom requirement (applicable for students who entered in Fall 2012 or later), assuming the student completes all requirements of the CIP. The CIP will be noted on your transcript as fulfilling your EBC.

Who Should Apply for the CIP?

  • Do you have an internship (paid or unpaid) lined up for the upcoming semester (or are you extending an internship from a previous semester)?
  • Do you hold a leadership position in a campus club or Greek organization with an opportunity to enhance professional skills?

Eligibility Criteria

  • Have an internship or leadership position where you can enhance your skills?
  • Current UNCW student
  • GPA = 2.5 or higher
  • Good academic standing
  • Position will be at least 50 hours over 5 or more weeks

How to Apply

Complete the application online. The timeframe is generally:

  • FALL SEMESTER: early August - early September
  • SPRING SEMESTER: mid November - early January
  • SUMMER: mid April - mid May (flexible)

Questions? Contact the Career Center:

  • Email: careercenter@uncw.edu
  • Call the Career Center at 910.962.3174

Contact Information

Career Center

Fall & Spring Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Express Hours: Fall & Spring Semesters
Monday - Friday: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.