Q: When do students in the NYU Master's Program in Global Public Health complete the internship requirement?

A: The timing of Internship placements will vary among students and will depend on such factors as enrollment status (full-time vs. part-time), project timelines and travel logistics. In general, the internship hours can be started any time after completion of the first semester of the program and should be completed no later than the start of the Capstone projects in the final two semesters of the program.

Q: How many hours of fieldwork are required?

A: Students are required to complete a minimum of 120 hours of direct fieldwork for the degree requirement, however many projects may require a greater time commitment. We encourage all organizations to be clear about the number of hours expected of the intern before approval forms are signed.

Q: Does the program place students in their internship?

A: No, the program does not formally place students with their internship. Rather, we provide a variety of resources to students so that they can identify an internship that meets their individual learning objectives.

Q: As a student, what resources will be available to me to identify an internship?

A: The program provides a variety of internship resources and opportunities to our students through our website, listserv, internship databases, an annual internship fair, networking opportunities and individual and group advising sessions with our Public Health Practice Coordinator.

Q: How does the program prepare students to have a successful internship experience?

A: While in the program, students will have exposure to a variety of practice-based learning activities and professional development workshops on such topics as career planning, resume writing, interviewing skills, and team dynamics.

Q: Can internship hours be completed abroad?

A: Absolutely. Although we realize that not every student will be able to travel abroad for their internship, we encourage all students to do so.

Q: What is the difference between the Internship and the Capstone?

A: The Internship is an individual assignment and tailored toward the unique professional development goals of each student. In addition, students identify and secure their own internship placement. The Capstone is a team project which allows students to demonstrate the core public health skills they have acquired throughout the program. Although students often indicate a preference of projects available, the program selects the teams and determines Capstone team assignments.

Q: As a new student, when should I start thinking about my internship?

A: Right away! Even if you are not planning on completing your required fieldwork hours for a few semesters, we encourage all students to begin the process the day they start the program. It takes time to identify your individual learning objectives and to research organizations who are the "players" in your area of interest. It can also take time to interview with the organizations you identify and determine your scope of work to be completed.