Internships

Through the SFSU internship program, students can receive academic credit for internships with local or national organizations, companies and filmmakers during the fall or spring semester.

Students are required to complete 120 hours of internship work during the semester, or approximately 8 hours per week. The student and internship supervisor arrange the schedule for each internship.

Students must work with experienced film professionals who can provide hands-on learning and skill-building opportunities.

To receive academic credit, students enroll in CINE 765, an asynchronous online course in which they complete assignments related to their internship.

Students often find internships by reaching out directly to local independent filmmakers in their networks or to small production companies whose work aligns with their interests.

Search for national and statewide internship opportunities through Entertainment Careers and the CSU Entertainment Alliance.

CSU Entertainment Alliance Entertainment Careers

Find recent postings for local internships at the School of Cinema Internship Postings page.

Check out the Local Film Organizations directory to find out more about Bay Area organizations working across the film and media industries. Use this page to explore different areas of the field and identify organizations that may be relevant to your interests and career goals as you begin your internship research.

Visit the CSU Entertainment Alliance (CSUEA) and SFSU Career and Leadership Development pages for information to support you in your applications to internships and jobs. These resources can help you:

• Strengthen your résumé,
• Write effective cover letters and emails,
• Prepare for interviews,
• Choose work for your portfolio

The CSU Entertainment Alliance offers resources specific to applying for film, television, and media internships. 

SFSU's Career and Leadership Development site offers general guidance on applying for jobs and internships. 

Student Eligibility Requirements

1. All students must possess a minimum GPA of 2.5.
2. Only Junior, Senior, or Graduate Students are eligible.

Internship Criteria

1. Prior approval from the Internship Coordinator is mandatory for all internships.
2. The primary considerations for internship approval are student learning and safety.
3. Internships should be associated with reputable companies engaged in the various facets of film and media such as pre-production, production, post-production, distribution, marketing, or study.
4. The designated internship supervisor must be an experienced professional who is both willing and competent to mentor the student in practical learning.
5. While internships can be paid, such opportunities are rare. Nevertheless, students can obtain both academic credit and a stipend from their internship.
6. Students are allowed to retake the Internship class, subject to the approval of the Internship Coordinator.
7. A maximum of nine individual study units (e.g., independent study, practicum,  internships, etc.) can be applied towards the student's degree.

Administrative Procedures

1. Upon approval, both the intern and the internship supervisor are required to sign a formal agreement.
2. Once enrolled in the Cinema internship course, students are mandated to submit Bi-Weekly Internship Reports to the Internship Coordinator.

Course Grading Criteria

1. Completion of a total of 135 hours.
2. Submission of 6 approved and graded Bi-Weekly Reports.
3. A positive evaluation from the internship supervisor.