Employers are encouraged to seek independent guidance regarding intern compensation. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Department of Labor guidelines include a seven-part test to determine whether employers are legally required to pay interns. For detailed information, employers should review Fact Sheet #71: Internship Programs Under the FLSA. Offering paid internships not only ensures compliance but also expands the candidate pool and promotes equitable access to opportunities.
The Virginia Chamber Foundation and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia have partnered to create the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (Virginia TOP). Virginia TOP provides resources and support for employers seeking to attract and retain talent in the region. For guidance on creating or enhancing an internship program, refer to A Blueprint to Develop Quality Internship Opportunities for Virginia’s Talent Pipeline.
Employers with internship opportunities can submit detailed position information through NOVA’s Career Connection database.
Mandel Grant Micro-Internships
The Mandel Grant at NOVA is a three-year initiative designed to establish a Humanities to Career Program. This initiative aims to integrate career-readiness skills into the Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (LASS) curriculum by offering professional skills training, work-based learning experiences, and career navigation support. The goal is to improve graduation and career outcomes for LASS majors and increase the number of students declaring humanities and social science majors.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeship enables employers to provide employees with a holistic talent development program through high-quality education, industry-recognized credentials, and on-the-job training and mentorship opportunities. The Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) administers Virginia's Registered Apprenticeship (RA) program. Registered Apprenticeship creates earn-while-you-learn models that provide occupation-specific training. Virginia's community colleges can be providers of the required Related Technical Instruction (RTI) that supports Work-Based Learning (WBL). Community colleges provide valuable training and RTI for various employers, businesses, and sponsors. Employers who wish to start RA programs can find their local Registered Apprenticeship Consultant.