Get ready students, this summer, Mercy University plans to begin a new program that gives free credits to students who are able to secure an internship, without having to pay any tuition. 

In an email sent to students on March 12, Jason Zalinger, Director of the Communication Arts Program, shared with students, “This summer (2025), the Provost’s Office has allowed us to run a pilot so that anyone who does an internship can do it for credit with zero tuition,” Zalinger wrote.

The purpose of this new decision is to allow students who can’t afford summer tuition to gain more access to internships. According to Zalinger, there’s no financial aid offered to students for summer courses, this has been an obstacle for students in previous years.

Success for Communication Arts Majors

For Communication Arts majors, this new program is especially effective. Mercy University’s program allows up to 9 internship credits to count toward the major, not just free electives. In other words, students are able to gain degree-fulfilling credit while gaining hands-on experience in their field. 

The internship course, COMM 399, is available to students who successfully land an internship. Although there’s no actual classroom direction involved, students must get approval from Jason Zalinger before registering. “The internship ‘class’ is not really a course,” Zalinger clarified. “The hard work is getting an internship. I’m just here to help and make sure that what you are doing is in your best interest.”

With sharp deadlines approaching, students are urged to work with Mercy’s Career and Professional Development team in order to find opportunities and revise their resumes. To begin this process, the career program recommends students to first meet with career coach Drew Georges, to polish resumes, though other available staff can assist.

The Tuition for Summer Classes Creates Obstacles

For many students, taking summer classes to stay on track for graduation can be financially strained. According to Mercy University’s official tuition and fees, undergraduate students pay $957 per credit for part-time enrollment, less than 12 credits, with an additional registration fee of $225 per term. This means that a typical 3 credit summer course would cost approximately $3,096, excluding any additional program-specific fees like textbooks and learning programs. 

These costs can be a significant obstacle for students who are looking to enroll in summer classes, particularly those who are looking to gain internship experience. Without financial aid or support from the institution, the high cost of summer classes may restrict access to valuable educational opportunities for students.​ Programs that offer free or covered internship credits help to level the playing field. They not only reduce financial stress but also encourage students to pursue internships that align with their career goals, rather than picking up extra shifts at work just to afford tuition.

Starting a Career While Still in School

Internships continue to be one of the most important stepping stones for Communication Arts majors who are looking to get into special industries like PR, journalism, digital media, and broadcasting. They offer not only life skills but also aid students in securing jobs after graduation.

According to NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers), students who are able to complete internships are more likely to receive job offers right after graduation. Many employers also prefer candidates with real-world experiences, even at the entry level. You have to start somewhere. 

What Should You Do Next?

Students who are interested in pursuing a summer internship for credit are recommended to:

1.Secure an Internship – Apply through Handshake. Attend Career Fairs held by Mercy University. From there, follow up on leads quickly.

2.Email Jason Zalinger – He will be able to confirm your eligibility and authorize registration for COMM 399.

3.Meet with a Career Coach – Mercy’s Career and Professional Development office can help with resumes, cover letters, and interview prep.

4.Get Started Early – The earlier students lock down an internship, the faster and easier it is to register and start planning ahead.

With the pilot program scheduled for the summer of 2025, there’s hope that free internship credit might become a permanent offering in the future.“This is a great opportunity,” Zalinger said in closing. “I hope that many of you will be able to take advantage of it.”