Connecting students to internships is a high-impact practice linked to increased persistence, degree completion, and post-graduation success. Internships contribute to personal and professional development, fostering skills like teamwork and communication. They offer insights into workplace culture, networking opportunities, quicker job placement, higher starting salaries, and leadership development.
Students participating in internships gain real-world experience, acquire and adapt skills, explore various career paths, and establish professional networks. Internships, externships, and practicum classes can count toward Criminal Justice & Criminology majors or minors; consult with an advisor regarding academic credit early on. For professional placements relevant to your degree, communicate with the internship coordinator.
Each semester, we provide opportunities for CJC majors to work with local justice-related community agencies and organizations. To participate in a professional placement opportunity, you must be a Criminal Justice and Criminology major, a junior or senior in good standing, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and have successfully completed CJC 101. Students may receive up to three hours of credit per internship. Students accepted into the program will enroll in CJC 491. Interns typically complete 15-20 hours per week and will complete additional assignments and readings as needed for the course.
There are also externship opportunities available for students to work directly with community-serving organizations focused on meeting the needs of those harmed, those who commit harm, and the communities they live in. Externs provide 6 hours a month of service and complete weekly professional development sessions. Externs also complete assignments and readings as needed for the course.
Excelling in academics, building relationships with faculty and advisors, engaging in extracurricular activities, and taking on leadership roles are crucial. Volunteer or community engagement work also serves as relevant experience toward the placement of your choice.
Crafting an outstanding resume and cover letter is essential. UMKC Career Services offers support in resume and cover letter development to enhance your applications. Additionally, honing interview skills is vital for success when invited to interviews.
