Where can I go on internship?
ICS interns have served everywhere from Portugal to Peru, Ireland to India. Outside of travel advisories and other safety concerns, you get to choose any destination you want. Dream big!
When do I go on internship?
ICS internship occurs after you’ve completed 2 years (60 credit hours) of study. Contact the Registrar to see whether you are approved to go or if you still need more prerequisites.
How long is internship?
Your internship must be a minimum of 8 months. Some students fall in love with the community where they are living and have stayed up to 2 years! Check with your preferred organization to ensure they are able to host/mentor you for 8 months.
Is the internship required?
Yes, you must complete your internship to receive your BA degree. Some students choose to work within cross-cultural contexts closer to home (e.g. work with refugee groups, First Nations communities, etc.)
What if I'm married?
Many of the organizations we work with are happy to have you join them as a spouse team! Check with the organization for their specific requirements.
How do I find an internship placement?
Your ICS Program Director will help you every step of the way!
- Begin by thinking about your own personal gifts, career dreams and calling.
- Attend the various info meetings that are offered on campus in your second year of study.
- Check our online internship postings and see if any appeal to you. If so, learn more about that organization through their website and staff.
- Have a conversation with Kara Bergstrom, Program Director.
- Pray and seek wise counsel from respected people who love you.
- If everything seems positive, begin to move ahead with the organization’s application process.
- Fill out CBC’s Learning Covenant and submit.
What does internship cost?
To do internship, you pay $3,750 to Columbia Bible College for tuition. In addition, you will be responsible to cover the costs that your organization suggests for flight, in-country costs, travel visas, immunizations, etc. Many of our students are able to fundraise to cover these costs. Check to make sure that you can raise funds through your organization and that your donors can be given charitable receipts.
What is a mentor and what do they do?
A mentor is your coach on the ground - someone who will meet with you regularly to give you support, training, and advice. You can read about the
Mentor Expectations & Responsibilities here.
How many credits will I receive for internship?
In total, you will receive 24 credit hours for your internship:
- Internship practicum (12 hours)
- World Religions II (3 hours)
- Mission Contextualization (3 hours)
- Intercultural Adaptation (3 hours)
- Ethnography (3 hours)
Prior to departure, you will need to complete a TESOL course (3 hours). Following your return, you will need to take Theology of Mission (3 hours). When you add these 6 hours to the above 24 hours, you receive a total of 30 credit hours throughout your 3rd year of study.
How do I complete assignments on internship?
You'll have a clear set of guidelines to follow. You'll submit your work by email to the ICS Director, who will mark your assignments and give you feedback.
What happens after I return from internship?
Returning to your home culture, family and College campus can be challenging after such an amazing and unique experience. We are here to walk with you!
In Fall of your fourth year, you will take Mission Seminar Class. This gives you an opportunity to work through what you learned alongside other ICS interns who were living around the world. You will have opportunities to debrief with the Program Director. CBC also has a reputable Counselling Program that offers super-affordable help when you need it. There also multiple opportunities to give back to CBC by getting involved in formal and informal community/leadership opportunities.