Paid versus Unpaid

Internships can be paid or unpaid. Some employers offer a competitive hourly wage rate while others offer smaller stipends. We are seeing paid internships ranging from $8 - $16 per hour. Nonprofits and government agencies offer unpaid internships. Many unpaid internships are worth the time and effort since they offer excellent learning opportunities and great resume builders. Just this past week I met with a VP of Human Resources who wants interns but can't pay them. The organization is one of the largest employers in the region and could offer successful interns full-time, well-paying jobs after graduation. Some students may see merit in unpaid internships. In any case, both paid and unpaid internships can qualify for credit as long as the process, policies, and procedures are followed.