Internships in Germany

Students will participate in an international internship that allows them to experience the benefits of studying abroad while also gaining real-world professional work experience.

Location:

Germany

Language of Instruction:

German

Term:

Summer

Academic Disciplines:

-Open to All Majors

Business

Engineering

Germanic Languages & Literatures

Program Type:

Internship

Highlights:

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

Program Summary:

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.

Location:

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.

Academic Information:

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.

Identity Abroad:

SAGE is dedicated to creating international engagement opportunities that meet the needs of all our students and providing resources to support you through the process of studying abroad. Study abroad is achievable for students of all identities including our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, students with disabilities, and students with religious/non-religious viewpoints. Before selecting a program, consider how your identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways and talk with your Program Coordinator about any program-specific concerns. Students with documented disabilities should discuss any accommodation needs with their Program Coordinator early in the planning process.

Considerations for Germany

Germany has laws in place to protect ethnic and religious minorities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, the differently abled, and other groups. Same-sex marriage is available in Germany and most large city governments officially encourage and host LGBTQIA+ pride events.

Germany’s cities and public transportation are generally accessible to individuals with disabilities. Older sections of the cities and smaller towns may be less accessible due to centuries-old architecture, cobblestone streets, and small indoor spaces. Germany offers services for people who are mobility, sight, or hearing impaired.

Source: U.S. Department of State country information pages and Diversity Abroad.

Additional Resources

Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.

Eligibility:

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)

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Internships in Germany