Svacina, L. S. (2012). A review of research on unpaid internship legal issues: Implications for career services professionals. The Journal of Cooperative Education and Internships, 46(1), 77-87.
Many college students are willing to gain professional experience through unpaid internships as a way to increase their employability after graduation. However, unpaid internships present a number of legal concerns. Very little research has been done to examine the complexity of these legal issues. This literature review analyzes related research and government policy associated with unpaid internship experiences, including compensation, lack of employment protections, possible consequences for international students, and university liability. Recommendations are provided to assist university/college career services professionals and internship supervisors in preventing and managing legal issues related to unpaid internship experiences.