Internships, Co-Ops, or Research

Experiential Learning

We highly recommend that all undergraduate students complete at least one hands-on experiential program, such as an internship, co-op, or research project before graduating. These programs offer practical experience in the energy industry, which is essential for applying academic knowledge to real-world scenarios. Undergraduate research also helps students develop their technical skills before starting their careers or as preparation for graduate education.

The Department of Energy & Petroleum Engineering offers course credit for approved experiential programs. To receive technical elective credits, students must submit a written proposal and Request for Research/Internship Credit form to an Energy  and Petroleum Engineering faculty member prior to the start of the semester that you will engage in the work experience. The form requires both an EPE faculty member and the department head's approval/signature.

Undergraduate students should contact their academic advisor to learn how technical electives are counted for their degree requirements. 

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Undergraduate Research - PETE 3900

Undergraduate research is a hands-on project conducted over one semester, guided by a faculty member. Students work closely with their faculty supervisor, especially if the project involves lab work. The course is graded on a Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory basis, with final evaluations based on performance, the accuracy of the research report, and feedback from the supervising faculty (and laboratory staff). 

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Undergraduate Internships - PETE 4970

Internships are a great way to prepare for a career in the energy industry and gain full-time work experience relevant to your field of study. Students can meet with CEPS Career Services team to both prepare for and find internships. Grades for this course are Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory, with consideration of the student's final report and employer feedback.

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Co-Op Agreements 

Students who obtain a Co-Op Work/Training Agreement may earn course credit under the same guidelines as internships. Students must submit their work agreement or offer letter and official job description as the required proposal.

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Internship Resources

• College of Engineering and Physical Sciences Career Services
• UW Abroad (International Internship Experiences)
• Honors College Sponsored Internships

Research Resources

• Wyoming Undergraduate Research Scholars Program (Deadline is March 28, 2025)
• Undergraduate Research & Inquiry Day
• Center for Global Studies Research & Grant Opportunities
• Wyoming Nasa Space Grant Graduate Research Fellowships
• Wyoming Nasa Space Grant Undergraduate Research Fellowships (Deadline is March 12, 2025)
• McNair Scholars Program 

 

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International Students

The International Students & Scholars Office provides support and advising to international students, especially when it comes to legally working in the United States. You can learn more on the International Students & Scholars webpage under Student Resources. Please direct all questions to ISS staff at uwglobal@uwyo.edu or 307-766-5193.