Directed Internship Program (DIP)

Through the Program’s Directed Internship program, Master of City Planning (MCP) and Master of Urban Affairs (MUA) students can obtain internships in planning or policy related areas in the public, private, or non-private sector. These provide a valuable opportunity to apply academic concepts and theories in a real-world setting, giving students a deeper understanding of the scope and impact they can have in their field.   

 Outcomes

• Increase proficiency in areas such as transportation oriented development, applied sustainability, and energy efficiency.
• Build a network of professional relationships and find mentors who can provide guidance, feedback, and support.
• Participate in real-time operations and decision-making.
• Develop skills in communication, relevant technology and programs, and quantitative reasoning, while improving work ethic and social responsibility
• Participate in real-time decisions with direct impacts on the community.

 Guidelines

Once an internship is secured, students register for MET UA 804 Supervised Fieldwork and receive 4 credits towards their degree upon completion. Only one set of credits can be awarded to a student, although this does not impede students from continuing with their internship beyond a single semester, or from securing another internship. All internships through this program need to be in a planning- or policy-related area and in the public, private, and/or nonprofit sector. Internships need to be secured for the duration of the semester, and students are expected to work at least 12 hours per week under a specific supervisor within the agency for which they are seeking the position. Exceptions to these rules are granted under special circumstances and are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. For further details and requirements, please contact the Kelly Adams, Academic Program Manager, at kadams2@bu.edu.