Required Internship Programs in Marketing: Benefits, Challenges and Determinants of Fit

Although research indicates that internships offer numerous benefits to students, very few marketing programs require their students to complete one. This paper outlines and discusses the key issues marketing departments should consider when deciding whether or not to establish an internship requirement. In particular, the paper discusses the benefits of internships, the challenges departments are likely to face if they require one, and the key determinants of whether or not an internship requirement represents a good fit for a particular department.