Internship Vs. Apprenticeship: Let’s Compare (2024)

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There’s no better way to learn a job than with hands-on experience. Internships and apprenticeships both offer valuable learning opportunities for new employees, but they serve different purposes. Most people complete one or the other, depending on their career goals.

Internships are a common requirement in college degree programs, allowing students to test what they’ve learned in a natural environment. Due to their short-term nature, interns can experience different jobs and companies before committing.

In comparison, apprenticeships prepare workers for one specific job. Apprentices work in skilled trades like construction or roles like cybersecurity specialists, electricians, and healthcare assistants.

Read on to discover what distinguishes an internship from an apprenticeship and which can help you achieve your goals.

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What’s the Difference Between an Apprenticeship and an Internship?

Interns and apprentices both have the opportunity to gain experience and confidence as they learn career-ready skills. But these two training programs differ in many other aspects, most notably in duration, pay and outcome.

If you have a specific trade in mind, such as construction or IT, becoming an apprentice is a great way to get started. Unions may partner with employers to sponsor some apprenticeship programs.

These regulated programs last at least a year, often result in full-time employment, and may only require a high school diploma, depending on the industry. While training, you’ll earn a paycheck and possibly receive employment benefits.

On the other hand, an internship is far less structured, and full-time employment is less guaranteed. As an intern, rather than taking on independent projects, you help a team function more efficiently by tackling smaller tasks. This support role lets you glimpse possible career paths and learn professional etiquette. Internships may or may not be paid, and employers may offer college credit.

Comparing Internships vs. Apprenticeships

While both programs are valuable, there isn’t much overlap between the two. Here are some of the main differences between apprenticeships and internships.

Length

Internship: Internships typically last between one and three months. College students may work during summer breaks or immediately after graduating.

Apprenticeship: Apprenticeships typically last four years, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes, though they range from one to six years. The longer length allows apprentices to solidify their skills before embarking on independent work.

Structure

Internship: Each one looks different. Larger companies may have consistent, structured programs, while small businesses might ask temporary hires to be flexible and hop in as needed.

Apprenticeship: The U.S. Department of Labor regulates apprenticeships to ensure compliance and effectiveness. Dozens of trades employ apprentices through programs sponsored by employers or union partnerships.

Mentors

Internship: Interns may work with one mentor, but not necessarily. Depending on the size of the company, interns might assist a team, department or entire business, filling in gaps and learning a variety of skills.

Apprenticeship: Apprentices receive individual training and work alongside one or two professionals in their field. Mentors train workers on specific skills, helping them gain independence over time.

Payment

Internship: Companies aren’t necessarily required to pay interns; sometimes, interns may receive college credits instead of a paycheck. In other situations, they may receive an hourly wage or a stipend.

Apprenticeship: Apprenticeships are paid; the rate usually increases as participants gain more expertise. After completing a registered apprenticeship, 93% of participants earned full-time employment with an average salary of $77,000, according to Apprenticeship USA.

Professional Credentials

Internship: Interns don’t receive credentials for their work, but their work experience could count toward earning a professional certificate. As an exception, teaching interns may receive a temporary credential that allows them to teach.

Apprenticeship: At the end of their work, apprentices in registered programs earn a national, industry-recognized credential.

College Credits

Internship: Many degree programs require students to complete an internship to graduate. As such, employers may offer college credit instead of payment.

Apprenticeship: While apprenticeships aren’t associated with degree programs, workers do complete classroom instruction. They learn regulations, best practices and technical skills in a controlled environment, alongside hands-on opportunities with their mentor.

Who Should Complete an Apprenticeship?

Almost 600,000 people actively worked as apprentices in 2022, across 27,000 registered programs spanning healthcare, education, hospitality, technology and skilled trades, according to the BLS.

Depending on the field, an apprenticeship can offer guaranteed income, benefits and stable employment opportunities to people without a college degree.

Before applying for an apprenticeship, you should know your desired career path. It’s best if you already have a strong interest—say, you love fixing things or working with computers. Becoming an apprentice can translate those skills into a fulfilling career.

These are some of the many jobs you can learn by apprenticing:

  • Carpenter
  • Electrician
  • Mechanic
  • Roofer
  • Soil and plant scientist
  • Cybersecurity analyst
  • IT generalist
  • Bank teller
  • Dental assistant
  • Paramedic
  • Hotel and lodging manager
  • Cook
  • Truck driver

Who Should Complete an Internship?

You may not have a choice in completing an internship if your degree requires it. But this short-term experience is a great opportunity to explore career paths within your field.

On-the-job experience is vastly different than learning in a classroom, and during your internship, you might be surprised by what interests you. Unlike an apprenticeship, you don’t need to find an internship that exactly matches your career goals.

Landing an internship is an opportunity to boost your résumé and prove your value to your employer. If you do receive a full-time offer, you’re likely to stay at the company longer than non-intern employees, the National Association of Colleges and Employers reports.

Some jobs that prefer internships include:

  • Marketing associate
  • Sales manager
  • Accountant
  • Financial analyst
  • Public relations representative
  • Journalist
  • Lawyer
  • Human resources coordinator
  • Biologist
  • Graphic designer
  • Engineer
  • Software developer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Internships vs. Apprenticeships

What is the difference between an apprenticeship and an internship?

Apprenticeships are regulated, long-term, paid positions that train participants in a skilled trade. Internships tend to be short-term, and they may offer college credit instead of a wage.

What is the difference between apprentices and trainees?

Apprentices complete training in registered programs, which often include classroom instruction. Skilled trade employers or unions sponsor these programs. Trainees, however, typically work in different fields, like retail or architecture, and receive job-related training through their employers.

What is the difference between training and an internship?

Internships help workers gain experience but don’t guarantee a paycheck or a full-time job. Training programs help people prepare for a specific type of work under the guidance of a mentor, and employers pay for trainees’ time.

What are three ways apprenticeships differ from other training programs?

The most significant difference between apprenticeships and training programs is regulation; the Office of Apprenticeship oversees thousands of programs within the U.S. Unlike training programs, apprenticeships can be sponsored through union partnerships and often include classroom instruction.

Internship Vs. Apprenticeship: Let’s Compare (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between apprenticeship and internship? ›

What is the difference between an apprenticeship and an internship? Apprenticeships are regulated, long-term, paid positions that train participants in a skilled trade. Internships tend to be short-term, and they may offer college credit instead of a wage.

What distinguishes an apprenticeship from an internship quizlet? ›

Apprenticeship is on-the-job training, whereas internship is a classroom-based training method. B.

Why choose an apprenticeship answer? ›

I want to use this apprenticeship as an opportunity to gain practical work experience that will build on my academic training. I also read about the growth prospects for apprentices on your company website and how you internalise those who successfully complete their apprenticeship tenure.

Why is an apprenticeship better? ›

An apprenticeship allows you to earn while you learn

Most of the training is delivered in the workplace, so you can learn the skills you need to do the job well. The rest of the training is given by a training organisation, either at the workplace, off-site (at college) or via e-learning.

What is a apprenticeship simple definition? ›

1. : a position as an apprentice : an arrangement in which someone learns an art, trade, or job under another. He obtained an apprenticeship with a carpenter. Later that year, he decided to become a barrister—a career that requires acceptance into an apprenticeship … Sidney Blumenthal.

What is the main difference between an apprentice and a trainee? ›

What's the difference? Generally, an apprenticeship provides training in a skilled trade, while a traineeship provides training in a vocational area. The approved training scheme for each qualification lists whether it is available as an apprenticeship or a traineeship.

What are 2 disadvantages of an apprenticeship? ›

CONS
  • #1 – You could limit your options. One potential risk of undertaking an apprenticeship is limiting your options. ...
  • #2 – Wage. Despite being paid a salary, apprentices typically start on a low salary. ...
  • #3 – Commitment. ...
  • #4 – Extra responsibility. ...
  • #5 – Holiday allowance.

What are two advantages of apprenticeship programs? ›

Apprenticeship creates a diverse, flexible pool of employees who have the specific skills needed in the workplace. Apprenticeship increases productivity because employees in a structured training program are motivated to achieve.

What is the difference between internship? ›

Internships usually provide entry-level professional experiences to high school students, college students or recent graduates. In contrast, jobs have a range of qualifications necessary, depending on the type of employment, including current enrollment in high school or college or a collegial degree.

What is your main reason for applying for an apprenticeship? ›

Sample answer: 'I am interested in this apprenticeship because it aligns perfectly with my career goals. I am passionate about this industry and this position seems like a great opportunity to contribute while advancing my skills.

What is a positive reason why someone might choose apprenticeship? ›

One of the most significant advantages of apprenticeships is the hands-on experience you gain from day one. You're not just studying theories; you're actively working in your chosen field, which helps you develop practical skills that employers value highly.

Why would I recommend an apprenticeship? ›

An apprenticeship is a full time job with additional learning. This winning combination means that you can get the training and qualifications you want in a career that interests you and you'll be paid a salary as well!

Why is it so hard to get an apprenticeship? ›

Competition is fierce

Since there is a lot of demand for apprentices, the competition is tough. As far as looking for an apprenticeship is concerned, you should follow the same approach that you follow when looking for any other job. In other words, you can create a network and look for these programs online.

What is one advantage of being an apprentice? ›

Get ahead in your career

On your apprenticeship, you will be learning, and regularly practising, a particular skill set in a real-life setting with professionals. This will put you way ahead of the curve in the job market, where often, students can struggle to get jobs due to a lack of work experience.

Why is an apprenticeship better than college? ›

Earn While You Learn: Unlike traditional college programs, apprenticeships often offer the opportunity to earn a paycheck from day one. Apprentices receive on-the-job training while also earning a wage, allowing them to support themselves financially without accumulating significant student debt.

What are the 4 types of apprenticeships? ›

Different types of Apprenticeships Levels

These are categorised as Intermediate, Advanced, Higher and Degree apprenticeships.

Do you get paid to be an intern? ›

You'll notice that many internships opt to pay an hourly wage or salary. But you might also find some that pay weekly or monthly stipends. The average hourly wage of an intern tends to fall between $15.67 and $19.51 for freshmen and seniors in college, respectively.

What is the difference between a traineeship and an internship? ›

In general, internships are intended for students or graduates with very little or no experience. Traineeships and junior programmes often require at least some initial work experience. However, there is no universal definition and not all organisations use these terms the same way.

What is the difference between an internship and an externship? ›

Interns take on professional responsibilities and gain hands-on experience. In contrast, externs typically shadow a professional without completing job-related tasks. Unlike an internship, which functions more like an entry-level job, an externship can be as short as one day.

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