Practicum and Internship in Sport Management
The department requires that all students completing a BS or BA in Sport Management must fulfill the following internship/practicum requirements for graduation:
During these experiences students will gain valuable insight and practical experience. Students select a site for the SPTM 283 experience with the assistance of the faculty member teaching the course. The SPTM 305 placement is at a site of the student's choosing.
Students select the SPTM 498 internship with assistance from their adviser and the Faculty Internship Coordinator. The student may also seek assistance from the USI Office of Career Services and Internships (http://www.usi.edu/careerservices) which provides a variety of internships and job search services as well as career development for students.
Students seeking more information about practicum/internship opportunities or sport organizations wishing to post a position should contact Dr. Chase Smith Faculty Internship Coordinator, at cmsmith1@usi.edu or 812-461-5496.
Student Resources
Practicum and Internship Handbook
Practicum and Internship Poster Presentations
FAQs
What is the difference between the practicum and internship courses?
SPTM 283 - Field Experience in Sport and Physical Activity
The field experience/observation course is offered during the student's freshman year. The students learn how to complete a resume, cover letter, portfolio, and learn about networking and interview skills during the first portion of the course. In addition, students will complete a 20-hour field experience during the second half of the course. The field experience provides students with practical experiences in sport and exercise related fields. Students have the opportunity to observe professionals at work and learn about the basic operations of a facility and about programs and services offered. This filed experience is completed early in the curriculum so a student can make a decision if this is actually a career they want to continue to pursue.
SPTM 305 - Practicum in Sport Management
A practicum usually occurs on a part-time basis during the student's sophomore or junior year, and focuses on specific objectives. Students are allowed to take other coursework with the practicum, and therefore the sites are within a reasonable driving distance of the university. The practicum integrates coursework with planned and supervised intercollegiate athletic experiences for a total of 150 hours. For the Kinesiology and Sport Department, the Practicum in Sport Management is completed at a site of the student's choosing.
SPTM 498 - Internship in Sport Management
The internship takes place upon completion of all coursework and exposes students to a practical learning environment through which they apply classroom theory to reality. In most cases the internship is a full-time (40 hours/week) work experience for a minimum of 450 hours.
When can I begin my practicum/internship experiences?
Undergraduate Students
How do I find an Internship?
The student is ultimately responsible for finding and securing a practicum/internship. However, the Kinesiology and Sport Department Faculty Internship Coordinator and the USI Office of Career Services and Internships Career Coordinator may assist in the responsibility.
It is important the student does not procrastinate, so it is highly recommended to begin looking at the internship two semesters prior to the internship course. Internship announcements are sent via email, posted on the internship website, and posted on the internship bulletin board. Students may review internship announcements for many sport organizations located in a handbook within the Kinesiology and Sport Department. In addition, students may also visit the USI Office of Career Services and Internships.
How do I register for the practicum/internship class?
Students may enroll in the SPTM 283 and 305 courses after meeting prerequisites. Students must complete a mandatory orientation prior to beginning the SPTM 305 practicum.
The SPTM 498 internship course is a closed class regardless if the student meets the prerequisite. Students must complete a mandatory orientation meeting with the Faculty Internship Coordinator to review the application and internship work agreement documents. Students must submit an internship application and work agreement before the closed class hold will be removed.
How many hours do I have to work during my internship? Do the hours have to be completed all in one sport organization?
Undergraduate
Internship Opportunities
Graduate Assistantships
Intercollegiate Athletics
Recreational Sports
Professional Sports
Youth Sports
Media
Health and Fitness
Sport Facilities
Event Management
Sporting Goods
Other