A Forensic Science Internship involves field placement — it is a first hand work experience in which students have the opportunity to learn how academic knowledge is applied in the work place. Some people learn more through experience and an internship provides that opportunity. As an intern, students become participants-observers in the field, while earning academic credit under the direction of an Internship Coordinator and a designated Laboratory Supervisor. If electing to do an internship, students can pick the amount of college credit hours. The career paths and goals of the student are considered when planning an internship placement. Because of this fact, students may be employed in a variety of settings. The diversity of internship possibilities reflects the range of employment opportunities open to students who graduate with a degree in Forensic Science.

While internships should not be considered an apprenticeship, valuable work experience is gained which often provides a competitive advantage when applying for employment after graduation. Internships may vary from laboratory to laboratory. During some internships time may be spent rotating through each section of the laboratory, observing work in the various areas and disciplines. In other internships time may be devoted specifically to one project.

Internships are normally done only in the Spring and Summer semesters. The internship is strongly encouraged, but is optional. The internship requires departmental approval. Approval for many internship positions require a GPA in the major core courses of 3.0. Students also have to either have taken or be registered for FOR 310 Training for Internships and have junior level status.

During the fall semester of your third year, you should sign up for FOR 310 Training for Internships class. As part of this class you can begin thinking about where you might like to intern, and do some preliminary research into the labs.

• The internship is a course that you have to pay for during the semester you intern, just as you do any other course.
• Internships will not be arranged through EKU unless the student takes it for academic credit.
• The internship is arranged by the EKU Center for Career and Cooperative Education after the student has completed the Internship Orientation Course – you should not contact the laboratories yourself.
• You should not apply for an internship unless you are committed to doing it.
  
• The internship will vary based on the laboratory interests and geographical preferences of the student.

The history and background of students applying for internships has come under increased scrutiny. Students should be aware that some laboratories have very strict rules about previous history of drug use, theft, DUI, or other criminal history. You may be required to take a polygraph test even for an internship. You must give the internship coordinator truthful information about any past problems in these areas. Lying and misrepresenting yourself will often be sufficient cause to deny an internship.

For more information concerning internships, contact Dr. Jamie Fredericks.