USING FORMAL INTERNSHIPS TO IMPROVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Student internships have the potential to benefit the student, the school, and the employer. While internships are sometimes offered within business curricula, more often than not they are simply an option and not a requirement. In this paper, we argue that internships should be incorporated into formal entrepreneurship education programs. Requiring internships can enhance student experiences and the chances for entrepreneurial success. We discuss the advantages and present a framework for differing internship programs in various types of universities. The end result can help strengthen entrepreneurship curricula and heighten the potential for successful new venture creation by post-graduates.