Work worth paying for?

Internships are becoming a prominent way for graduates to first gain experience in the environmental sector.

This is either as a means of securing employment or to strengthen applications for other organisations.

As internships have not been a common stepping stone between university and employment until recent years, there is much uncertainty from graduates and employers alike regarding what graduates should expect and what employers should provide.

The IES (Institution of Environmental Sciences) has published a report based on employer and graduate survey research investigating whether internships are an effective stepping stone into employment. To identify the problems surrounding graduate employment in the sector, specifically the value that internships play in aiding graduates into employment, the IES conducted a series of surveys aimed at both graduates and employers. Fundamentally, this identified that there is little consensus amongst both graduates and employers regarding the purpose, worth and format that internships should take. 

This report uncovers the vital statistics such as the average duration of an internship and how usual it is for internships to be paid or unpaid and whether expenses are covered. The report explores what benefits graduates and employers gain from internships and employers’ attitudes towards graduates’ skills.

Key findings suggest internships provide valuable experience, but do not necessarily lead directly to employment. For some employers discussing required skills from graduate employees, it seems there is a gap between expectations and reality. The report concludes with recommendations for any employers running internships schemes.

Download and read the full report here