Academic Credit

Interns may be eligible to receive academic credit at their home college or university for participating in the HACU National Internship Program (HNIP). Combining the HACU internship experience within an academic framework has several benefits, including the opportunity for students not to lose a semester of academic credit and to stay on track for graduation. In addition, an academic structure provides an opportunity to reflect on what is being learned in the internship and how it relates to the one's field of study.

Whether or not interns may receive academic credit for their participation in the program is entirely up to their academic institutions, but if such opportunities are not offered, students are encouraged to try to create the opportunity for themselves. HACU can facilitate this process by ensuring that any necessary documentation and procedures are in place for the home institution to award credit. Click here for guidelines on how to initiate a request for academic credit.

Set activities and requirements to help assist in receiving academic credit:

  • Work contract completed by intern and supervisor
  • 2 - 3 Internship workshops/Professional development opportunities
  • Mid-term and final evaluations


The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, founded in 1986, represents more than 500 colleges and universities in the United States, Latin America, Spain, and school districts throughout the U.S. HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). The Association’s headquarters are in San Antonio, Texas, with regional offices in Washington, D.C. and Sacramento, California.

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