Get to understand the difference between apprenticeship and internship.

### Apprenticeship vs. Internship: What’s the difference?If you want to get work experience you might be weighing up the options of an apprenticeship vs internship. Both offer great opportunities but they are different and can affect your career choices.#### What is an Apprenticeship?An apprenticeship is a long term training programme where you learn a trade and get paid. Companies create these programmes to help candidates develop practical skills for skilled jobs. You work alongside experienced professionals who guide you through the learning process. Upon completion you often get a certification or licence in your field. Common industries that offer apprenticeships:- Manufacturing- Construction- Information Technology- Healthcare- Energy- Transportation#### How do Apprenticeships work?The details of an apprenticeship can vary by company but generally:- **Business Involvement**: Companies design their apprenticeship programmes, often working with industry associations to ensure the training is comprehensive.- **Job Training**: Apprentices get hands on experience, working alongside a mentor who teaches them the skills and processes.- **Related Instruction**: Many programmes also require academic courses, which may be delivered by community colleges or technical schools, alongside on-the-job training.- **Pay**: Apprentices get a stipend or hourly wage, with pay increases linked to skill development and goal achievement.- **Certification**: Completing a registered apprenticeship can lead to nationally recognised certification, valid across participating states.#### Benefits of ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships can last from one to six years and offer many benefits especially if you don’t want a college degree:- **Hands On Training**: You get immediate practical experience, so it’s easier to move into higher responsibility roles when you finish.#### How to get an ApprenticeshipTo find an apprenticeship for you try:1. **Career Goals**: Think about your long term goals to work out what industries and programmes suit you.2. **Eligibility Requirements**: Research the requirements of the programmes you are interested in, such as age, education and any physical fitness requirements.#### Apprenticeship vs InternshipHere are the main differences:1. **Duration**: Apprenticeships last longer – often at least a year – whereas internships are usually a few months, often coinciding with school breaks.2. **Training**: Apprentices get direct practical training in their trade, interns observe and assist with simpler tasks.3. **Mentorship**: Apprentices often have a one to one mentor, interns work with multiple employees and have less autonomy.4. **Structure**: Apprenticeships are structured around specific training needs, internships may involve more general responsibilities.5. **Pay**: Apprentices are paid, often with benefits, internships can be paid or unpaid but offer college credit.6. **Job Opportunities*: Interns may struggle to get a full time job after their internship, apprentices often move into permanent roles in their company after completing their training.It all comes down to your career goals and the type of training you want. Knowing these differences will help you make an informed decision that suits you.### Stage of Professional DevelopmentWhen people look for internships or apprenticeships their career goals are often very different. Interestingly, the time spent in an internship can be equivalent to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, so internships are an alternative to traditional college education. Some apprenticeships even include college courses so participants can earn credits towards a degree.Internships are great for recent high school graduates or college students who have an industry in mind but are still undecided. By doing multiple internships across different companies they can get clarity and make informed decisions about their future. For those who already know what career they want, internships give valuable experience. Short internships during school breaks can also enhance their education and boost their CV.### Business OpportunitiesDifferent businesses offer apprenticeships or internships depending on the industry. Apprenticeships are usually for skilled trades:- Plumbing- Welding- Construction- Appliance maintenance- Electrical work- Automotive work- Heavy machinery operation- Truck drivingIn recent years apprenticeships have expanded into nontraditional areas like cosmetology and information technology. Internships are more general and can be found in engineering, marketing and administration. There are also crossover opportunities like a marketing internship in the healthcare sector. Research and tap into your professional network to find out more internship opportunities in your industry.### What is an Internship?An internship is defined as a learning experience that provides practical work related to a student’s career interests or field of study. It’s an opportunity for career exploration, skill development and can benefit employers by bringing in new ideas and potential future employees. A good internship will have:- Part-time or full-time work schedule, minimal clerical tasks (less than 25%).- Job or project description.- Orientation to the company and its culture.- Support to achieve learning objectives.- Regular feedback.### Expectations for Student InternsInterns usually want:- Real work experience and to be able to contribute meaningfully, not just do trivial tasks.- A mentor who gives guidance, feedback and models professionalism.- To gain specific skills and knowledge in their industry.- Networking opportunities to build professional connections.- Exposure to top management.- A thorough orientation to get to know the company’s mission, goals and procedures and meet colleagues.### Why Hire an InternHiring interns can bring many benefits to a company:- Relief to regular employees.- Short-term staffing.- Get priority projects done quickly.- Cost effective employment strategy.- Access to motivated students to fill gaps in staff.- Complete specific projects.- Build a pipeline for future employees.- Prepare the workforce of tomorrow.- Bring fresh ideas and energy to the organisation.- Give students practical learning opportunities.- Tap into students’ technology and social media expertise.