Internships 

Experiential learning is a key part of the Plant Science program. Our department offers the following courses for internship credit:

  • PLSC 3990. Field Study Internship: For students in the baccalaureate Plant Science program. 

  • SAPL 991. Internship: For students in the Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture 2-year Plant Science program.

  • PLSC 3081. Summer Internship Experience: Zero-credit course for internships during the summer. Students must also enroll in PLSC 3990 or SAPL 991 in the fall semester following the internship to earn credit.

Students are responsible for finding internships that align with their major/concentration. The Internship Opportunities page is regularly updated with plant science internships.

Enrollment Process

  1. Identify an instructor of record and an internship.

  2. Complete the Plant Science Internship Form: This outlines internship expectations and serves as your learning contract.

  3. Submit the Registrar’s Student Enrollment Request Form: This enrolls you in the course (no permission code needed).

Internships can be paid, but payment and course credit are independent. You can register for up to 6 credits per semester.

Tip: Consult your academic advisor for help with internship options and course enrollment.

Additional Guidelines and Procedures

Internship Courses

PLSC 3081. Summer Internship Experience 

Prerequisites: None.

Zero credits. Summer session.

Instructor: selected advisor/faculty

Provides an opportunity for students to gain practical experience, knowledge, and professional skills in a work environment related to employment and careers in plant science or landscape architecture. Students work with the instructor and internship supervisor to develop a learning contract and plan of work to ensure meaningful and educational tasks and experiences. Students taking this course will be assigned a grade of S (satisfactory) or U (unsatisfactory).

 

PLSC 3990. Field Study Internship 

Prerequisites: Open to juniors and seniors who have demonstrated professional potential as identified by their advisor.  

1-6 credits, may be repeated for a total of 6 credits. Fall/Spring semesters. 

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory 

Students will work with professionals in an area of research or management. Students taking this course will be assigned a final grade of S (satisfactory) or U (unsatisfactory.) This course may be repeated provided that the sum total of credits earned does not exceed six credits. 

College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources

The College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources offers internships in Extension. Get paid, in-the-field experience in the areas of Food, Health, Nutrition, Sustainability, Research, Agribusiness, Youth Education, Community Development, and Marketing.  

Our Undergraduates have had internships like: 

  • Ecotypic Seed Supply Chain Intern 
  • 4-H Program Intern 
  • Environmental Education Intern 
  • Vegetable Entomology Intern 
  • Sustainable Turf and Landscaping Intern 
  • Sustainable Food Systems Intern 

    See Extension Internship Opportunities for more information, opportunities, and how to apply. Current UConn freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are eligible to apply for and be selected for this program. 

    More information about internships at UConn can be found at the UConn Center for Career Development. 

    A student processes soil samples

    A student processes soil samples in the Soil Nutrient Analysis Laboratory. June 20, 2022. (Jason Sheldon/UConn Photo)

    Research 

    In addition to internships, we offer undergraduate and graduate research opportunities, including:

    • PLSC 3996. Undergraduate Research in Plant Science: Develop a research project. For baccalaureate Plant Science students. 

    • PLSC 3999. Independent Study: Investigate a specific topic through various learning methods (e.g., readings, assignments, discussions). For baccalaureate Plant Science students. 

    • SAPL 999. Independent Study: Investigate a specific topic through various learning methods (e.g., readings, assignments, discussions). For Ratcliffe Hicks 2-year Plant Science students.

    Both courses offer course credit and are guided by a faculty member. These courses are ideal for students seeking hands-on experience and faculty mentorship.

    Enrollment Process

    1. Consult with your advisor and faculty mentor.

    2. Complete the PSLA Independent Study and Undergraduate Research Syllabus Form: This outlines course expectations and serves as your learning contract.

    3. Submit the Registrar’s Student Enrollment Request Form: This enrolls you in the course (no permission code needed).

    Research Courses

    PLSC 3996. Undergraduate Research in Plant Science

    Prerequisites: None.

    1-6 credits, may be repeated for credit.

    Individualized research conducted under the supervision of a faculty instructor. The student is required to submit a report on research findings at the end of the semester. Consent of instructor and department head required.

    PLSC 3999. Independent Study 

    Prerequisites: None. 

    1-6 credits, may be repeated for credit. 

    Students are expected to submit written reports. 

     

    Visit the Office of Undergraduate Research to learn more about university-wide internship opportunities and information. 

     UConn IDEA Grants

    Summer Undergraduate Research Fund

    Student at research farm