Industrial Internship Projects

For students interested in the application of mathematics in industry, summer (or part-time) internships are highly recommended. During the internship, students work under the guidance of industry mentors at top corporate research facilities around the country. We view internship not so much as an off-campus summer (or part-time) job, but as a broadening experience central to our educational philosophy.

Many internships are arranged by MCIM and are awarded on a competitive basis. Students are also guided by their own search (see Resources for Internship Search). The application process begins in early fall and requires approvals by advisors. For students pursuing the MS degree with emphasis in Industrial and Applied Mathematics, internship is a requirement, and the research done during the internship should lead to a thesis topic. For students pursuing Ph.D. degree with emphasis in Applied and Industrial Mathematics, an internship is recommended. For students considering careers in industry, at least two internships are recommended. It is possible that the research done during the internship can become part of the student's thesis, or even the topic of the thesis.

Companies benefit from collaborative research through the internship program in two ways. First, it provides the company with resources, such as the student and the access to the university faculty, to carry out important research. Second, it provides the company with a pool of talented students with excellent background for future recruitment.