Internships in Germany

- Internships arranged through Lawrence’s sister city, Eutin in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
- Internships last around 6 weeks
- A minimum of 5 semesters college-level German required or consent of program director.
- Housing may be with a host family or in an apartment
- Gain work experience, earn academic credit, and explore Germany and Europe during free time
Participation in an international internship allows students to experience the benefits of studying abroad while also gaining real-world professional work experience. Only a small percentage of students study abroad – and even fewer intern abroad - so participation in an internship overseas can give you the professional advantage you need to succeed by giving you in-demand global skills. The Germany Internships Program is sponsored by the German Studies Department.
Internships will begin in late May (exact date to be determined) and run for about 6 weeks. Host companies typically provide housing or assist with arrangements, as well as provide a modest stipend to assist with day-to-day living expenses. Accommodations vary as housing may be with a host family or in an apartment.
Past placements have been in the areas of business, engineering, architecture, and German language, journalism, and media studies, however the program is open to all majors. Interested students are encouraged to contact Jim Morrison (jdmorr@ku.edu), the program director, to inquire about opportunities for majors outside of those listed above.
Situated midway between Kiel and Lübeck in the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein, Eutin is a picturesque town with beautiful natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and special ties to KU and its sister city of Lawrence. With a population of 17,000, Eutin provides our students with a safe and well-rounded environment which is easily navigable by foot, bike, or bus, while still offering numerous cultural, historical, and entertainment venues. Each summer, the town’s open-air stage hosts both a Blues fest as well as an opera festival that includes students from KU’s School of Music. The lakes and forests surrounding Eutin are home to many outdoor activities such as boating, canoeing, swimming, and hiking. Within the city itself, students will find many stores, markets, and sports facilities, in addition to the storied Eutin Castle and gardens.
Students will enroll in GERM 453, a 1 credit independent study through the German Studies Department during the summer term. Students may opt to earn additional credit through the University Career Center’s LA&S 490 Internship Exploration Course (1-5 credits) or through their academic department.
Please note: there will be several mandatory meetings with the program director during the second half of the spring semester. All participants are required to attend.
Language Requirement:
A minimum of 5 semesters college-level German language is required or consent of the program director.
Preference will be given to juniors, seniors, and graduate students in good academic standing. A minimum 2.5 GPA is required (exceptions considered with the submission of a GPA petition). In addition to completing an application though Study Abroad & Global Engagement, applicants must also meet with Jim Morrison, the programy director, during the application process to discuss their goals for the internship experience, the placement process, and potential internship sites.
Tentative Application & Placement Timeline
Nov. 1 Application opens
Dec. 15 Application deadline
Dec.-Jan. Program director works with German contacts to place students
Early March Students receive placement details
Mid March Students submit financial contract, confirming participation in the program
Mid April Post acceptance forms due
Mid May Program fee and tuition due
Late May/Early June Internships begin (exact dates TBA)
Tentative Application & Placement Timeline
Nov. 1 Application opens
Dec. 15 Application deadline
Dec.-Jan. Faculty Director works with German contacts to place students
Early March. Students receive placement details
Mid March Students submit financial contract, confirming participation in the program
Mid April Post acceptance forms due
Mid May Program fee and tuition due
Late May/Early June Internships begin (exact dates TBA)
Contact Information
Jim Morrison
Faculty Director
Department of Germanic Languages & Literatures
Wescoe Hall
1445 Jayhawk Boulevard
785-864-9173
jdmorr@ku.edu
Jim Morrison
Faculty Director
Department of German Studies
Wescoe Hall
1445 Jayhawk Boulevard
785-864-9173
jdmorr@ku.edu