Work integrated learning and professional practice skills are fundamental to computer science education, in addition to forming a requirement for professional body accreditation of our courses. The Research School of Computer Science at ANU offers internship placements as a project-based work integrated learning opportunity for undergraduate and masters students. Our Computer Science Internship program is innovative in its design, as it provides three streams: (1) placement in a host organisation, (2) an academic project-based program and assessment, and (3) professional mentoring and support via workshops and peer circles. Students entering internship placements find themselves challenged by leaving the university to engage in work integrated learning, and even more so if they are international students encountering foreign workplace culture. We support our students in managing and growing through these challenges by providing a supportive network, both academically and professionally. This presentation will cover the design, development, ongoing improvements, challenges, and outcomes of our internship program.
