Navigate the Intern and Co-op Hiring Process
Internships and co-ops are powerful tools for developing talent, building your workforce pipeline, and supporting student success. Whether you're launching a new program or refining an existing one, this guide walks you through the process of hiring a KSU student for an internship or co-op experience.
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Start with a Purpose
Before posting a position, define your goals:
- What skills or projects could a student help with?
- What learning outcomes do you hope to provide?
- Are you building a talent pipeline or offering a short-term experience?
If you're unsure where to begin, our Experiential Education team is here to help you design a meaningful opportunity. Reach out at
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Register & Post in Handshake
Handshake is KSU's official career platform, connecting you with over 20,000 active students across all majors.
Steps to get started:- Visit joinhandshake.com and create a free employer account.
- Request to connect with Kennesaw State University.
- Once approved, you can post internships, co-ops, and other opportunities.
Need help? Check out our Handshake Employer Guide or contact our Employer Relations team.
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Build a Strong Position Description
- Organization Overview: Briefly describe your mission, culture, and industry.
- Qualifications: Specify preferred majors, academic year, skills, or certifications.
- Responsibilities: Outline key tasks and projects.
Learning Outcomes: Highlight what students will gain (e.g., software proficiency, client interaction, industry knowledge). - Tools: Use O*NET OnLine to help define duties and competencies.
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Plan the Logistics
Internships and co-ops vary in structure. Consider:
- Timing: Choose the semester (Fall, Spring, Summer) and duration.
- Hours: Part-time roles typically range from 10–15 hours/week.
- Compensation:
- Internships: Paid is strongly recommended. Typical range: $10–$15/hr.
- Co-ops: Must be paid. These are usually full-time and span multiple semesters.
- Unpaid internships: Must comply with FLSA guidelines.
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Consider Academic Credit
If you'd like your intern to earn academic credit:
- Plan ahead-credit-bearing internships must align with academic semesters and departmental requirements.
- Students must enroll in an internship course and complete paperwork through their academic department.
- Review Program Requirements by Major to understand eligibility and timelines.
Note: Co-ops are not credit-bearing but are tracked through the university's co-op program.
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Assign a Supervisor
Every intern or co-op student should have a designated supervisor who will:
- Provide onboarding and training
- Offer regular feedback and mentorship
- Complete any required evaluations (especially for credit-bearing roles)
A strong supervisor relationship is key to a successful experience—for both the student and your organization.
Need Help?
Our team is here to support you at every step. Whether you're posting a role, designing a program, or navigating academic credit, we’re happy to assist.
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