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Internship Opportunities at Pompeu Fabra University (UPF): What You Need to Know
Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) in Barcelona is renowned for its academic excellence and strong ties to the professional world. If you are wondering what are the internship opportunities at Pompeu Fabra University, you have come to the right place. UPF offers a variety of internships—both curricular and extracurricular—across all disciplines, from business and economics to health sciences, communication, and law. This guide covers everything from types of internships to application processes, deadlines, and tips to make your internship search successful.
Types of Internships at UPF
Internships at UPF are generally classified into two main categories: curricular internships (part of your academic program) and extracurricular internships (voluntary). Both provide valuable professional experience, but they differ in requirements and credit recognition.
Curricular Internships
These internships are integrated into the curriculum of many bachelor’s and master’s degrees. They are mandatory or optional depending on the program. Students earn academic credits (ECTS) and receive a grade. Typically, you must be enrolled in a course that includes an internship module. For example, the Bachelor in Business Administration often includes a mandatory internship in the final year.
Extracurricular Internships
These are voluntary placements that you can undertake alongside your studies. They do not grant academic credits but are recorded on your transcript as professional experience. Extracurricular internships are flexible and can be done at any time of the year, often during summer or part-time during the semester.
Where Do UPF Students Intern?
UPF has partnerships with over 2,000 companies and institutions, both in Spain and abroad. Common internship destinations include:
- Multinational corporations in Barcelona (e.g., Amazon, Nestlé, HP)
- Startups and SMEs in the 22@ innovation district
- Public institutions like the Barcelona City Council or the European Commission
- Hospitals and research centers for health sciences students (e.g., Hospital del Mar, PRBB)
- Media and communication agencies for journalism and audiovisual communication students
- Law firms and courts for law students
How to Find an Internship at UPF
UPF’s Career Services (Servei de Carreres Professionals) is your primary resource. They manage an online platform called UPF Ocupació where companies post internship offers. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Log in to UPF Ocupació with your university credentials.
- Complete your profile, including your CV, academic background, and preferences.
- Browse available offers and apply directly through the portal.
- If shortlisted, you will be contacted for an interview with the company.
- Once accepted, you sign a training agreement (conveni de pràctiques) between UPF, the company, and you.
Additionally, you can attend career fairs organized by UPF, such as the UPF Job Fair, where you can network with recruiters.
International Internship Opportunities
UPF encourages international mobility. Through programs like Erasmus+ Traineeships, you can intern in another European country. For destinations outside Europe, there are bilateral agreements and the IAESTE program for science and engineering students. International internships often require language skills (English, French, German) and a strong academic record. The International Relations Office provides guidance on applications and funding.
Internship Duration and Schedule
| Type | Typical Duration | Hours per Week |
|---|---|---|
| Curricular (bachelor) | 3–6 months | 15–20 |
| Curricular (master) | 3–6 months | 20–25 |
| Extracurricular | 2–12 months | 10–30 (flexible) |
Most internships are part-time during the academic year and full-time during summer. Check with your faculty for specific limits.
Are UPF Internships Paid?
Payment varies. Curricular internships are often unpaid, though some companies offer a stipend or cover expenses. Extracurricular internships are more likely to be paid, especially in the private sector. According to UPF data, around 60% of extracurricular internships offer a monthly allowance ranging from €300 to €800, depending on the industry and hours. For example, tech internships tend to pay more than those in the social sector.
How to Apply for an Internship at UPF: Step-by-Step Checklist
- ☐ Check your degree’s requirements: is an internship mandatory or optional?
- ☐ Update your CV and write a tailored cover letter.
- ☐ Register on UPF Ocupació and complete your profile.
- ☐ Set up job alerts for your field.
- ☐ Apply to at least 5–10 offers that match your interests.
- ☐ Prepare for interviews: research the company and practice common questions.
- ☐ Once accepted, sign the training agreement with the university.
- ☐ Submit your internship report at the end (if required).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many students miss opportunities due to simple errors. Here are pitfalls to avoid:
- Applying too late: Start searching at least two months before you want to begin.
- Ignoring the portal: UPF Ocupació is the main channel; do not rely solely on external job boards.
- Poor CV: Tailor your CV to each offer; highlight relevant coursework and projects.
- Not following up: After applying, send a polite email to the company if you haven’t heard back in two weeks.
- Overlooking small companies: Startups and SMEs often provide more hands-on experience.
Internships by Faculty: Specific Opportunities
Faculty of Economics and Business
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Students often intern at banks, consulting firms, and multinationals. Popular placements include CaixaBank, Deloitte, and PwC. The faculty also offers a specific Internship in International Business program with companies in Barcelona’s trade sector.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences
Internships at hospitals (Hospital Clínic, Hospital de Sant Pau), research institutes (CRG, IRB Barcelona), and pharmaceutical companies. Many are research-oriented and may lead to a master’s thesis project.
Faculty of Law
Law students intern at law firms (Cuatrecasas, Garrigues), courts, and legal departments of companies. The faculty runs a Legal Clinic where students work on real cases under supervision.
Faculty of Communication
Internships at media outlets (TV3, El País), advertising agencies, and PR firms. The university has a partnership with Barcelona Media, a hub for communication professionals.
Benefits of Doing an Internship at UPF
Beyond gaining experience, internships offer:
- Networking: Connect with professionals and potential employers.
- Skill development: Apply academic knowledge to real-world problems.
- Career clarity: Test different fields before graduating.
- Enhanced CV: Stand out in the job market.
- Possible job offer: Many companies hire interns after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I do an internship if I am an international student?
Yes, international students can participate in internships as long as they have a valid student visa and meet the requirements. The International Office can assist with paperwork.
How many internships can I do during my degree?
There is no official limit, but curricular internships are usually one per degree. Extracurricular internships can be done multiple times, but total hours cannot exceed the maximum allowed by your program (typically 900 hours).
Do I need to speak Catalan or Spanish for internships in Barcelona?
While many companies operate in Spanish or Catalan, some international firms work in English. However, basic Spanish is highly recommended. For internships in public institutions, Catalan is often required.
Can I get academic credit for an extracurricular internship?
No, extracurricular internships do not grant ECTS credits. However, they can be recognized as complementary training in some programs. Check with your coordinator.
What if I cannot find an internship through UPF Ocupació?
You can also find internships through external platforms like LinkedIn, InfoJobs, or directly contacting companies. However, the agreement must be signed with UPF to ensure insurance and academic recognition.
Are there internships for PhD students?
Yes, PhD students can do internships through the Industrial Doctorates program or specific agreements with research centers. Contact your supervisor for more information.
Next Steps: Start Your Internship Search Today
Now that you know what are the internship opportunities at Pompeu Fabra University, it is time to take action. Log in to UPF Ocupació, update your profile, and apply to positions that align with your career goals. Remember to reach out to the Career Services for personalized advice. An internship at UPF can be the launchpad for your professional career—do not miss the chance to gain real-world experience while studying.
Thanks for the detailed guide. I’m a second-year law student and I’d like to start an extracurricular internship this summer. How early should I start applying through UPF Ocupació?
You’re welcome! For summer internships, it’s wise to start browsing and applying by March or April. Many companies post offers early, and competition can be high. Also, make sure your CV and profile on UPF Ocupació are up to date before applying.
I’m an international student interested in health sciences. Are there internships at Hospital del Mar for non-Spanish speakers?
Many health sciences internships at Hospital del Mar and other affiliated centers are conducted in Spanish or Catalan, especially those involving patient interaction. However, some research-focused placements may be in English. It’s best to check specific offers on UPF Ocupació and discuss language requirements with the coordinator.
Do extracurricular internships also require a training agreement? And are they covered by any insurance?
Yes, even extracurricular internships require a training agreement (conveni de pràctiques) signed by UPF, the company, and you. This agreement includes insurance coverage (accident and civil liability) provided by UPF for the duration of the internship.
I’m planning to apply for the Bachelor in Business Administration at UPF. Does the mandatory internship in the final year have to be in Barcelona, or can I do it abroad?
Great question! UPF encourages international internships. You can do your mandatory internship abroad, but you’ll need to find a host company that meets the program’s requirements. The Career Services office can help with international placements through their network and Erasmus+ partnerships.
The article mentions the UPF Job Fair. When is it usually held, and is it only for final-year students?
The UPF Job Fair typically takes place in spring (around March or April). It’s open to all UPF students, not just final-year ones. It’s a great opportunity to network with companies and learn about internship and job openings, so I’d recommend attending even if you’re earlier in your studies.