Internship Programs

Contact Us

Career Services
1200 16th St., E180
Golden, CO 80401
303-273-3233

careercenter@mines.edu

Monday-Friday
8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Internships

Employers can benefit from student internships as much as students themselves. By coordinating efforts with the Mines Career Center and students, employers can find technically skilled employees to benefit their organization. Internships typically last 8–12 weeks, are hands-on, related to the field of study, and are always paid. Internships do not have associated college credit.

The Value of Paid Internships

Paid internships offer students invaluable real-world experience while providing financial support. Research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) highlights the significant role internships play in career readiness, skill development, and post-graduation employment opportunities. According to a recent NACE article, students recognize internships as a critical stepping stone to their careers. Investing in paid internships not only benefits students but also helps employers attract and develop top talent.

Check out these NACE articles for more information on the value of paid experiential learning opportunities:

• Students Recognize the Importance of Gaining Internship Experience
• Paid Internships: Moving Toward Greater Equity, Setting Pay

Internship Guidelines

The Career Center follows the internship guidelines put forth by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).  NACE believes that an internship should include: 

• A learning experience with a real-world opportunity to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom. It must not be simply to advance the operations of the employer or replace the work that a regular employee would routinely perform. 
• Learned skills and knowledge that are transferable to other employment settings. 
• A defined beginning and end that is mutually agreed upon and consistent with institutional sponsor guidelines and schedules. 
• A position description with clear responsibilities and required/desired qualifications. 
• Clearly defined learning objectives/goals supportive of the student’s academic program goals and institutional requirements. 
• Direct supervision by a professional(s) with relevant expertise and educational and/or professional experience who provides productive feedback, guidance, and the resources and equipment necessary to successfully complete the assignment 

Colorado School of Mines requires that all Internships are paid opportunities that meet minimum wage standards set forth by the location of the experience.

Average Internship Salaries by Department

Fall 2023-Spring 2024

Cooperative Education (Co-ops)

The Cooperative Education (Co-op) experience differs from an internship in that it is more in-depth and requires a minimum of six months of full-time work. Unlike internships, Co-op positions are paid, and students can submit an extensive report for academic credit. This longer term of employment offers numerous benefits to employers, including the ability to assign extended projects with greater responsibility and to observe the student’s abilities and fit with the team over a more extended period.  For more information, email Rebecca Martinez at rebeccamartinez@mines.edu.

Co-ops also play a significant role in enhancing career readiness. NACE defines career readiness as the foundation upon which a successful career is launched, emphasizing the development of core competencies that prepare college graduates for workplace success .

Explore these NACE resources to learn more about the impact of cooperative education:

• Understanding Cooperative Education
• 2025 Internship & Co-op Report Executive Summary
• What is Career Readiness?

Career Center Annual Reports

The Career Center’s Annual Report provides valuable insights into the career paths of Mines graduates, including where students go after graduation and their average starting salaries. The report also highlights data on Undergraduate Experiential Learning, featuring internships and technical experience gained by graduating students. Explore the three most recent editions below.

Colorado School of Mines is committed to providing appropriate accommodations to students with disabilities so that all students have meaningful access to all programs and services. Please contact the Career Center (careercenter@mines.edu) with any accommodation requests or concerns.