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Internship Food Sciences

There are lots of possibilities to do an internship in your home country and abroad. Many industrial companies, research institutes and universities offer internships.

General Information

The internship is a compulsory part of the Masters at Wageningen University. During an academic internship, the acquired knowledge and skills are put into practice while gaining relevant work experience at an academic level. The aim of the internship is to apply knowledge and perform skills in a potential future work field, for example in a company, a public institution, a research organisation, another university, or a non-governmental organisation, thereby broadening the academic horizon.

There are plenty of possible internship hosts. Students can look for internship hosts themselves or have a look at the vacancies that are shared via the internship coordinators.

Students can find more elaborate information on the internship Brightspace:

MSc Internship Food Sciences (MFT, MFS, MFQ)

BSc Internship Food Technology

Internship coordinator

The internship coordinators food sciences are responsible for the programs:

Students from the following programs might also find an internship connected to food sciences:

Students can contact the internship coordinators in case of questions or if extra support in finding an internship is needed. Companies can contact the internship coordinators to share an internship vacancy or for an exploratory talk.

Contact Internship Coordinator

FAQ

What is the duration of an internship period?

A duration of minimal 24 ECTS (= 4 months) is compulsory. The internship period is scheduled in the 2nd year of the Master.

It is allowed to do an internship for up to 36 ECTS (= 6 months). Longer periods will not be rewarded with extra credits.

Does Wageningen University organise the internships?

No, students have to contact other universities/institutes/industries by themselves. An internship coordinator can help by finding the right placements.

How do I organise an internship?

Visit the internship Brightspace or contact your internship coordinator. Please, think about what you want (at home or abroad; duration; industry or not; subject). Internet and scientific literature can help you in finding placements too.

Is it compulsory to do a MSc thesis first and after that an internship?

Although we highly recommend performing your MSc thesis before the internship, it is not compulsory. As for most things, it depends on the situation. Performing your MSc thesis first offers many benefits, as you will be more experienced in doing independent research. However, it may happen that an opportunity arises to which you cannot say no. Always consult with the internship coordinators or study advisor whether this will work out for your particular study program.

How much time do I need for organising an internship?

As a directive you should start 3-6 months ahead. Generally, you need more time when the internship placement is far away (e.g. in another continent). If you are planning to move to another continent, and especially if you need visa, it is advisable to start 6 months ahead. Internships at home can be organised in a relatively shorter time.

How do I contact a possible placement?

The best way is to use email. Include always a CV and motivation letter. If the placement does not react in a period of 14 days, please call by phone and ask if there are possibilities.

Are there any grants available?

Finding grants is difficult. From time to time there are other possibilities, funded by the European Union (e.g. Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci). The university does not participate permanently in these programs. Ask your internship coordinator for more information.

Which agreements must I make with a placement?

  1. Starting- and end date
  2. Subject / Project
  3. Allowance
  4. Housing (if applicable)
  5. Allowance in cost of travelling and housing (if applicable)
  6. How to meet each other for the first time
  7. Reporting and confidentiality

Do I need a university supervisor?

Yes, you will get assigned to a university supervisor at one of the respective chair groups.

How is the internship graded?

The evaluation of the internship contains out of a performance assessment (50%), internship report (40%), oral presentation (5%), oral defense (5%), and reflection report (pass/fail).

What else is important to know?