Experiential Learning and Internships

Experiential learning is generally accepted to include the gaining of knowledge, applying the knowledge through an activity, and reflecting through a thoughtful analysis and assessment of how the activity contributes to personal growth.  This learning is facilitated when the student participates actively in the learning process and has control over its nature and direction.

Management majors must complete at least four credits toward experiential learning as a discrete component of the major.  Students may complete several projects if the learning is compatible with their coursework at the colleges.  Current experiential learning for credit alternatives include: study abroad, practicums, internships, “Students In Free Enterprise” participation, and “Students for the Advancement of Management” participation.

The management major experiential learning requirement can be fulfilled in the following ways:

1. Study Abroad and...

   • Enroll in an approved management course while on the study abroad program.  This is very common on the Australian program. 
   • Enroll in MGMT 389 for two credits while studying abroad.  This course is designed for students participating in Study Abroad.  Readings relevant to understanding business in the international environment will be assigned.  Students will write a series of essays integrating their knowledge of theory with their personal observations and reactions.  Particular emphasis will be placed on the impact of culture on business.  The course will be taught by a professor at CSB/SJU, using distance learning to maintain contact with students located in a variety of countries.
   • Enroll in a distance learning management ILP at CSB/SJU.  These ILP's will be arranged individually with a professor.
   • International students enrolled at CSB/SJU are considered to be studying abroad and enrolled in several approved management courses.

2. MGMT 394—Management Practicum: A student designed practical management experience in a student activities or volunteer organizations. Students will gain experience in applying management theory and practice in leadership roles in settings other than the off-campus workplace. Readings and periodic meetings with a management faculty member and other students enrolled in practicum will facilitate the integration of theory and practice.  Prerequisites: Junior or senior status or at least 12 Management department coursework credits completed. (2 credits)
3. MGMT 395—Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE): This course provides practical on-campus management experience with an academic component. Previous course work in management is necessary.  After consulting with the faculty advisor for SIFE students will complete a contract listing their goals, activities, and desired outcomes for the semester. Students will meet periodically with the faculty advisor to review progress. Upon completion of the course, the student will have a portfolio documenting activities and outcomes for the semester. (2 credits)
4. MGMT 396--Society for the Advancement of Management (SAM): This course provides practical on-campus management experience with an academic component.  Previous course work in management is necessary.  After consulting with the faculty advisor for SAM students will complete a contract listing their goals, activities and desired outcomes for the semester.  Students will meet periodically with the faculty advisor to review progress.  Upon completion of the course, the student will have a portfolio documenting activities and outcomes for the semester. (2 credits)
5. MGMT 397—Internship for credit: Practical off-campus experience with a solid academic component. Previous course work in management is necessary. An internship is a structured work experience that combines academic learning and career exploration in a professional work environment. An internship is a bridge between the classroom and the world of work. Students gain hands-on experience, learn new skills, and explore a profession while learning to apply and test theories and methods learned in the classroom. Contact a management faculty member who teaches in a field related to the proposed internship. Internship guidelines are available at the Internship Office website or at the Academic Services Building, CSB (1 -8 credits).