Field Experience
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A Madison education focuses on the application of knowledge and analysis to public issues, concerns and events, as well as on theoretical approaches to social science. As a result, Madison students learn to think critically and analytically about public affairs, to evaluate policy options, and to understand decision-making. Madison believes that a liberal education is incomplete without a chance to test and apply these abilities in professional settings.
During the junior or senior year, one semester is spent participating in an internship with an agency, organization, business, or legislative office, instead of in the classroom. The College believes that it is important that our students spend at least three months interning in an organization and a position that allows them to apply what they have learned in the classroom to the professional world. In addition to the learning opportunities afforded by such an internship, many of our graduates have developed excellent job contacts through the organizations in which they interned.
Field Experience is a requirement for all Madison students. It consists of two courses taken concurrently - MC 400 (9 credits, pass/no pass) and MC 401 (3 credits, pass/no pass). During the sophomore and junior years, students should consult with the Director of Field Experience, and explore the more than 500 placements on file in the Field Experience Office. These placements include assignments with a variety of state and federal agencies, city governments, legislative offices, public interest groups, legal aid societies, courts, social service agencies, businesses, newspapers, labor unions, and voluntary organizations. We have placements throughout the U.S. and abroad. All entail work that is substantial and serious. With the Director of Field Experience’s approval, students may develop internships with organizations other than those already listed in our files.
Students may, with advisor approval, petition to substitute one of four options for MC400 and/or MC401: a senior honors thesis; prior professional or public affairs-related work experience relevant to the Madison program; a student teaching dual major - TE 401 (5 cr.) and TE 402 (6 cr.) - or a dual major practicuum; or an approved Study Abroad program.
Students considering substitutions for the Field Experience or part-time experiences should remember that they need to complete a minimum of 51 MC credits, or 41 credits if they are transfer students (either internal or external) or if they will be doing student teaching.
