The Externship and Internship Advantage:

A Guide to Hands-on Learning in the Cornell MPA Program

Gaining real-world experience by taking part in hands-on learning opportunities like internships and externships has become increasingly popular among undergraduate students in a variety of degree programs. But how common is it for Master of Public Administration students to participate in experiential learning opportunities like these? What’s the difference between an internship and an externship? And how does participating in one benefit your career? 

Table of Contents

 

  • Chapter 1: The Basics of an MPA
  • Chapter 2: Externships vs. Internships
  • Chapter 3: Things to Consider When Applying for Internships

 

  • Chapter 4: Hands-on Learning at the Brooks School of Public Policy
  • Chapter 5: Beyond Your MPA Internship or Externship: Career Support for Brooks School Students

 

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Engaged Learning — the Brooks School MPA Approach

Our students often say that they’re drawn to the MPA Program at the Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy because of the emphasis we place on experiential learning. (All students fulfill a Practical Experience requirement as part of their coursework.) And graduates regularly list their internship and externship experiences as key to helping them develop the skills needed to thrive in their future careers.

This guide aims to answer your questions about the value of hands-on learning, the differences between internships and externships, and the program options available to our MPA students. Plus, we’ll share how to research and prepare for your experiential learning opportunity — and make the most of your time there.

When you’ve finished reviewing the information, we hope you’ll feel prepared to step into your internship or externship experience(s) as a Brooks School MPA student.

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