Micro Internships are short-term, project-based opportunities that connect your organisation with University of Bath students ready to make a difference. Whether you need insight on a specific challenge, support with a new initiative, or a fresh perspective on your work, a Micro Internship delivers meaningful results in just 35 hours or less.
The programme is primarily designed to support SMEs by enabling access to student talent. Many of the opportunities offered through Micro Internships would not typically be available within SMEs without this initiative.
If you're a larger organisation or your needs fall outside the scope of Micro Internships, we’d still love to hear from you. There may be other ways we can work together.
Why host a Micro Internship
- Fresh insight. Students bring academic knowledge, creativity, and curiosity to your project
- Defined outcomes. Ideal for short-term, focused work with tangible deliverables
- Fully funded. Students are employed and paid by the University, seconded to your team
- Flexible delivery. Internships can be completed in one week or spread over time
- Talent pipeline. A great way to connect with potential future hires
"Both students were motivated and interested in the challenges… I was impressed with their skills and ability to work independently." fflow, Micro Internships employer
Suitable projects
Previous Micro Internships have included:
- research into AI and healthcare
- programming and software development
- environmental policy analysis
- social media strategy and content creation
- fundraising and awareness campaigns
“She exceeded our expectations and definitely delivered on the project.” RWK, Micro Internships employer
How it works
- You identify a project. Think about a task or challenge that could benefit from a student’s input
- You submit a short brief. We’ll help you shape it into a student-facing opportunity
- We advertise the role and can assist with shortlisting if needed, but you make the final decision on who to host
We’re here to make the process smooth and flexible, whether you want to manage applications yourself or need a bit of extra support.
"The team enjoyed meeting the students we hosted, who were engaged, positive and impressed the people they worked with.” Varn, Micro Internships employer
Programme timeline
Micro Internships typically run during the vacation periods in each semester.
While Micro Internships are designed to be flexible, we understand that some projects are time-sensitive so you may adjust the internship dates to ensure the opportunity aligns with your needs.
We’re currently recruiting for Winter 2025/26. If you're not quite ready to host, but want to explore future opportunities, we’d love to hear from you.
Frequently asked questions
What types of projects are suitable?
Projects that are clearly defined and can be completed in 35 hours or less, such as market research, marketing campaigns, data analysis, or content creation.
Do I need to pay the student?
No. Micro Internships are fully funded by the University. There is no cost to you.
What is the time commitment for employers?
You’ll need to provide a clear project brief and light-touch supervision. These internships are also a great opportunity for junior staff to develop line management skills.
What support is provided by the university?
We advertise the role, support with shortlisting if needed, and handle onboarding and logistics. We’re here to help throughout.
Can small businesses take part?
Yes the programme is primarily designed with SMEs in mind. Micro Internships are intended to make student support accessible to organisations that may not otherwise have the capacity or funding to host.
How do students apply?
The Micro Internship is advertised internally. Students then apply via our application process or directly to you. You decide how you'd like to manage the process; some employers shortlist and select independently, while others ask us to support with reviewing applications. Either way, you make the final decision on who to host.
What happens after selection?
You contact the successful candidate. We complete relevant checks, and ensure all documentation is in place. You’ll arrange a short introductory meeting before the internship begins to confirm logistics and expectations.
Can I offer the student further work afterwards?
Yes, but any work beyond the Micro Internship must be arranged independently and comply with employment law.
Other ways to work with us
There are a number of different ways you can employ students from the University of Bath. If you don't have a specific vacancy, but would like to talk to a broad range of our students about your company and what it's like to work for you, there are a number of different ways you can engage.