Internship Handbook

This handbook provides the information you need to prepare for, apply to, and complete the HP480 internship. You are expected to review all requirements and follow instructions without reminders. A step-by-step Internship Checklist is provided in the front of the handbook, with detailed explanations in the sections that follow.

The HP480 internship (or approved capstone equivalent) is the culminating experience for all students earning a bachelor’s degree in Health Administration or Community Health. Students complete 150 on-site hours for 3 credit hours, typically during their senior year. Internships allow students to apply professional knowledge, develop workplace skills, and gain exposure to the healthcare environment.

2026-2027 Academic Year

Table of Contents

1. Internship Eligibility & Requirements

• GPA requirement

• Required prerequisite courses

• CastleBranch requirements (brief summary, details in Appendix I)

• Required credit hours and contact hours

2. Planning for the Internship

• Early planning (freshman/sophomore)

• Junior/senior planning

• Choosing potential sites

• Understanding financial/logistical considerations

3. Application & Placement Process

• Step 1: Apply by fixed deadlines

• Step 2: Site selection and preceptor interview

• Step 3: Accepting an offer & completing required forms

• Registering for HP480

4. During the Internship

• Professional conduct expectations

• Schedule expectations

• Tracking hours and required documentation

• Meetings, midterm review, evaluations

• Projects and learning goals

• Activities allowed/not allowed

5. Policies for Special Situations

• Using current workplace

• Paid internships

• Discrimination/harassment

• Activities outside scope or conflicting with professional values

6. Preceptor Expectations

Glossary

Appendix 1