Internships vs. Apprenticeships
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Internships vs. Apprenticeships in Maryland
What You Need to Know
Every student deserves the chance to explore their potential—whether you’re passionate about building, designing, caring, or creating, there’s a path waiting for you.
Internships and apprenticeships are two of the most exciting ways to gain real-world experience and build the confidence and skills needed to thrive in your future career.
Whether you’re pursuing college or jumping straight into the workforce, these hands-on opportunities can give you a competitive edge. They may sound similar, but they offer very different experiences—let’s break them down so you can discover which one fits you best.
What Is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a paid, hands-on training program that combines learning on the job with classroom instruction.
It’s a longer-term commitment that leads to a recognized credential—and often, a full-time job.
In Maryland, apprenticeships:
- Are registered and approved by the state
- Last from 1 to 4 years, depending on the trade or field
- Include both paid work and related instruction (usually at no cost to you)
- Lead to a state-recognized certification or license
Benefits of Apprenticeships
Always Paid.
Always Paid. Earn while you learn.
Kickstart Your Career.
Earn potential college or higher education credits.
Mentorship.
Learn your trade alongside an expert in your field.
Employment.
High likelihood of employment after completion.
Get a Credential.
Receive nationally recognized credentials before you enter the workforce.
Apprenticeships That Open Doors
The Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program offers students the opportunity to earn while they learn through registered and youth apprenticeships in a variety of industries, combining paid work experience with classroom instruction. Visit their website for tools to explore opportunities, connect with apprenticeship navigators, and learn about program benefits and success stories.
What Is an Internship?
An internship is a short-term experience that helps you explore a career field.
Internships can be paid or unpaid and may happen during the school year or over the summer.
In Maryland, internships:
- Typically last a few weeks to a few months
- May be part-time or full-time
- Can be arranged through your school, a local business, or a community program
- Help you build your resume and gain confidence in a real work setting
Benefits of Internships:
Gain Experience.
Understand day-to-day life in your chosen field.
Paid Internships.
Depending on the opportunity, internships can be paid or unpaid.
Explore Your Options.
Multiple short-term internships can help you decide which field to pursue.
Networking.
Build meaningful professional relationships within your field before entering the workforce.
Variety
Internships are not always limited to your field of study—intern for an adjacent industry to broaden your knowledge and round out your resume.
| Question | Internships | Apprenticeships |
|---|---|---|
| What is the “big idea”? | Think “experience building.” Internships can be exploratory, which is a great way to get a taste of a potential career before committing significant time to it. | Think of an “in-depth training program.” Apprenticeships are ideal for individuals committed to a specific trade or profession and seeking hands-on training that often leads to a job offer. |
| Who offers the opportunities? | Companies in business fields (accounting, business, hospitality, information technology, marketing, etc.). | Companies, trade unions, and businesses in highly skilled trades (automotive, cosmetology, construction, electrical, plumbing, etc.). |
| How is the program structured? | Internships can have a formal training program or be informal and task-based, depending on the program. The majority of internships are informal. | Formal structure. Curricula ensure apprentices acquire all the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their jobs effectively. If the opportunity is a Registered Apprenticeship, it is regulated by the U.S. Department of Labor to ensure compliance and effectiveness. |
| Who will I be learning from and working with? | Intern programs may have a principal manager or coordinator that interns work with, but many interns get to work with several team members on tasks associated with their chosen industry. | Apprentices work one-on-one with experienced practitioners in a mentor-mentee environment. Depending on the program’s structure, apprenticeships can also include peer-to-peer learning with other apprentices. |
| Are there any prerequisites? | Generally, high school, college, and graduate students can apply for internships. | A high school diploma or equivalent may be required. Some programs may have additional requirements. |
| What is the time commitment? | Short-term (1–3 months). Part-time commitment. | Longer-term (1–4 years). |
| Is the program paid? | Can be paid or unpaid. Occasionally, stipends are available. | Accredited apprenticeship programs always pay participants. |
| Can the program lead to employment? | Can sometimes lead to full-time employment. | Higher likelihood of full-time employment directly after completion. |
| What credentials do I gain? | College credit may be available. Students can also use the experience on their resume. | Apprenticeships are state-recognized. College or higher education credit may also be available. |
Hear From Those Who Have Been There!
Click below to read Project Bright Future’s success stories to hear from students who have benefited from internships and apprenticeship programs!
Curious About Potential Opportunities?
No matter which career path you’re exploring, there are opportunities to gain experience with knowledgeable businesses that can give you a leg up on your future! Click below to learn about current internship and apprenticeship opportunities.