Practical Experience

Planning students have the option of participating in internships for which they can receive course credit. While not required, an internship is highly recommended in your junior or senior year as a way to gain professional experience while still in school and help you obtain a professional position upon graduation.

A number of local and regional offices and agencies regularly offer internships during the academic year, and students obtain internships further afield during the summers. Interns have worked with the City of Ames, the Des Moines Metropolitan Area Planning Organization, City of Ankeny, regional councils of governments, and nongovernmental organizations.

To receive course credit, students develop a work plan with a professional planner, maintain a professional journal regarding their experiences, and obtain a performance evaluation from the supervisor at the end of the internship.