In response to the glut of communication degree holders in a time of rapidly diminishing demand for teachers and the subsequent need for alternative careers in communications, the department of speech and theatre at an Arkansas university developed a one-semester internship program for seniors in communications. The program began with students gaining hands-on experience with cameras, audio equipment, lighting, and control room duties in local television and radio, and was broadened to include speech communication and theatre, with placement in management of community theatre, television marketing, public relations, and personnel. The program encountered problems in the areas of expectations of the "real world" management, the quality of work for the student at the site, and the development of internships in new areas. A statement of goals was thus devised, in contract form, to be drawn up by the students with the help of the on-site director and approval of a faculty advisor. It included a course listing showing the students' area of proficiency, and has since proven adequate for most internship arrangements. Development of the internship program has led to growth in the number of nonteaching degree graduates in communication, reflecting the expectations of the public that students should be educated both in the values of knowledge and in practical competence and productivity. (A copy of the internship contract is included.) (HTH)