MIA and MPA students at SIPA are expected to complete an internship and professional development (PD) requirement as part of their degree. However, students may request a waiver if they meet specific criteria demonstrating prior professional experience or equivalent coursework. Waiver requests are reviewed by SIPA’s Career Advancement Center (CAC) and must include appropriate supporting documentation.

Eligibility Criteria for a Waiver

Students may apply for a waiver if they meet one of the following conditions:

1. On Leave from a Job
   • The student is on an official leave of absence from their employer and will be returning to the same position.
   • Required Documentation: A letter from the employer on official letterhead confirming the leave status and return date.
2. Prior Full-Time Professional Experience
   • The student has been employed on a full-time, permanent, professional basis (internships are not included) for a minimum of four (4) years in a field relevant to their concentration and career goals prior to enrolling at SIPA.
   • Required Documentation:
     • A current resume with month and year format for each professional experience.
     • A written justification detailing how past experience is (a) relevant to the student’s career goals and (b) will allow them to be competitive for the positions they will pursue post-SIPA.
3. Joint-Degree Student – Professional Development Course Completion
   • The student has completed an equivalent PD course in another degree program.
   • Required Documentation: An official transcript showing course completion.
4. Joint-Degree Student – Internship for Credit
   • The student has completed an internship for academic credit in another degree program.
   • Required Documentation: An official transcript showing course completion.
5. Joint-Degree Student – Internship and Professional Development Course Completion
   • The student has completed both an internship and a PD course in another degree program.
   • Required Documentation: An official transcript showing course completion.

Application and Review Process

• Students must submit their waiver request through the designated Google Form provided by the Career Advancement Center (CAC).
• CAC staff will review each request and notify students of the decision or any additional required documentation.
• Approved waivers will be reflected in the student’s academic record.

For questions about eligibility or the application process, students should contact the Career Advancement Center (CAC).