Faculty of Arts
M a s t e r o f H e a l t h C o m m u n i c a t i o n I n t e r n s h i p s
Department of Media & Communications
We are pleased to invite you to host a Master of Health Communication student as an intern. By participating in this voluntary work placement program, you will benefit from the energy, enthusiasm and skills of graduate students from a range of backgrounds.
Health Communication combines expertise from the Department of Media and Communications and the School of Public Health to provide the most comprehensive and specialised course in health communication in Australia.
Health Communicators are one of the largest industry workforces in public relations and media. Our one-year (full-time) postgraduate degree is designed to meet the needs of those working in, or wishing to work in this growing specialty. It provides both media skills for professional communicators in health and medicine working in public affairs, public relations, community relations and journalism as well as evidence-based education in public health issues.
What is the advantage of taking on an intern?
Our students are highly motivated, professional graduates and many have already worked in the health industry or in other professional capacities.
In addition to having a free worker, it is also a good opportunity to get a ‘first look’ at some of our most promising students as prospective employees. If you are a small company or charity, this could also be your opportunity to initiate a project you may not otherwise be able to afford.
How long are the internships?
Each student is required to complete 140 hours of work in one or more organisations. The internship may be undertaken full-time, over 20 working days, or part-time over a longer period.
How does the internship work?
Students will work for you, under your supervision and direction. The internship may be done at any time of the year that is convenient to you, either full-time or part-time.
What kind of organisations can participate?
Any company or organisation that works in the health related industry can host an intern. This includes but is not limited to media, health departments, hospitals, community centres, not-for-profits, non-government organisations, pharmaceutical companies and public relations companies.
What kind of work should the interns do?
Interns are expected to work at a professional level, undertaking any tasks that are normally completed in your particular workplace. We do ask that you briefly outline in writing, in advance, the tasks that you expect an intern to undertake, though these may be altered in consultation with the intern and the internship officer at a later date.
Ideally, we would like students to be involved in a project that utilises their learning and skills. We trust that the student will make a significant contribution to your organisation.
Are the interns paid?
No, interns are not paid.
What about insurance?
Unpaid interns are covered by the University of Sydney’s insurance for public liability and professional indemnity.
Is there much paperwork?
Administration is minimal. There are only two forms which need to be completed and returned to us. One of these is the Offer Form, for when you have accepted a student; and the second is the Completion Form, to be submitted at the end of the placement. The first provides us with the address of the workplace and supervisor’s details, while the second form gives you an opportunity to comment on the performance of the intern.
How do students learn of available internships?
All available internships are listed on the Media and Communications Postgraduate website. The listings are password protected for our students’ use only. They apply online to the Internship Officer who then sends their details to the organisation for approval/interview. Students may also initiate their own internships by approaching companies independently, in consultation with the Internship Officer. Where possible, interns are placed with organisations that complement their previous work experience and/or studies.
How do you get involved?
Email the Internship Officer stating when you would like an intern to start and how many days per week you would prefer your student to work. Include a brief outline of the project and/or the duties involved in the position.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss the internship program, please call or email the Internship Officer or Postgraduate Coordinator below.
For more information |
Dr Fiona Giles |
Fran Hagon |
Please FAX this page with Attention to Fran Hagon to the number 02 9114 1222.