What is an international internship?
An international internship is a unique opportunity for students to complete their social work internship requirement in another country. Students explore new cultures and communities, and learn how social work is interpreted and provided abroad.
International internships can also support future involvement with work abroad, Peace Corps service (also see CSU’s Peace Corps webpage), advanced academic study, or work with international communities.
Specialty Internship t in Alaska
A specialty internship is where students can explore a new culture, community, and learn how social work is interpreted and provided in unique contexts.
Currently, the CSU School of Social work has specialty internship available in the North Slope Borough School District in Utqiagvik, Alaska.
The North Slope Borough School District is comprised of approximately 2,000 students throughout 11 schools in 8 villages that are only accessible by air. Throughout the school district student populations range from 98% Inupiaq to diverse populations of Pacific Islander, Samoan, Phillipino, etc. Districtwide, 75% of students are Inupiaq and live on the sovereign land of their ancestors. Their communities observe subsistence lifestyles, learn Inupiaq languages, and create native art.
The North Slope Borough School District utilizes the Iñupiat Learning Framework, which internship students will utilize. Learn more about it in this YouTube video.
CSU Practice-Based Learning Partner Locations
These internships are in process of assessment by CSU for risk management and actual internship experiences; however, CSU has had previous students participate in other programs hosted by these organizations. CSU has received positive feedback from students and faculty members, and interested students are encouraged to speak to the organizations and previous visitors to make sure the placements are the best fit for them based on their personal risk tolerance as well as previous international and internship experiences.
Process and Timeline
International internships require extensive planning and preparation, including a process of self-reflection to determine if you are ready and able to meet the requirements for an international internship.
The process for BSW and MSW students to engage in an international internship is different. BSW students are encouraged to begin the process one year prior to becoming eligible to complete their internship. MSW students will need to work directly with their Internship Coordinator and MSW Adviser to discuss changes to their course of study and plans for international placements. MSW on-campus students may choose to complete their first internship abroad, but they cannot complete an international internship for their second internship.
Please review the appropriate international internship timeline document to ensure your experience goes smoothly.
Financial Assistance Resources
Understand the perceived vs. actual costs of completing an internship abroad. The cost of completing your internship can be funded by scholarships and other financial resources. Be sure to review Financial Assistance Resources below for more information, as well as discuss financial assistance with your internship coordinator and education abroad coordinator.