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Internships vs Degrees: Hiring Trends Every Student Should Know

Students who combine degrees and internships have the biggest hiring advantage.
UniList Desk

Updated Jan 20, 2026 | 05:00 PM IST
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Every student should know whether to focus on internships or degrees when seeking a job. In today’s job market, internships give valuable hands-on experience, but a degree is essential to be considered by employers. While practical skills matter, academic qualifications remain the foundation for a successful career.

Why Internships Matter

Internships are vital for career development. They provide students with:
  • Practical experience to add to a resume
  • Opportunities to meet and network with professionals
  • Skills improvement in a real work environment
  • Insight into whether a particular job or industry is the right fit
Internships serve as a trial period where students learn how workplaces function. Companies in India increasingly offer internships, with numbers rising by 25% in 2024 compared to the previous year, and a 135% increase over the last five years. Many organisations also provide pre-placement offers (PPOs) to interns based on performance, which can lead directly to full-time employment.
Internships help students understand workplace tools, tasks, and responsibilities, making them more prepared for future jobs. Remote internships have become especially popular, allowing students across India, including those in smaller towns, to gain valuable experience.

The Role of Degrees

A college degree is still important. It shows that a student has learned extensively about a subject and developed critical thinking skills. Degrees from recognised Indian universities are highly valued by employers, particularly government-accredited programmes.
However, degrees alone are not enough. Employers increasingly seek candidates who combine knowledge with practical skills, which is why internships play a key role in preparing students for the workforce.

Internships vs Degrees: What Employers Prefer

Employers want candidates who can perform effectively in their roles. Some value degrees more, while others prioritise internship experience. The truth is, both are valuable:
  • Degrees provide theoretical knowledge and a strong foundation.
  • Internships develop practical skills, workplace familiarity, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ultimately, employers hire based on what a candidate can do, not solely on their degree or internship history.
Hiring Trends and Key Insights
Practical Skills Over Marks
Companies prioritise candidates with hands-on skills, not just academic marks. Internships help students gain experience with tools and technologies used in real work.
Work Experience Matters
Internship experience often makes a candidate stand out because it demonstrates readiness for the workplace and the ability to handle responsibilities.
Remote Internships Are Increasing
In 2024, nearly half of all internships were remote, enabling students across India to participate. Flexible internships allow students to balance studies and work, gaining experience without compromising their education.
Performance-Based Opportunities
Some internships offer stipends, sometimes up to ₹1 lakh per month. High-performance internships can lead directly to job offers and build valuable networks.
Popular Fields for Internships
  1. Management
  2. Engineering
  3. Digital Marketing
  4. Media
  5. Technology
Internships allow students to learn industry tools, build professional networks, gain hands-on experience, and strengthen their resumes.

Integrating Degrees and Internships

A degree provides education and theoretical knowledge, while internships develop practical skills and confidence. Employers prefer candidates who combine both, as this demonstrates competence, readiness, and adaptability.
To succeed in today’s competitive job market, students should plan their degree and internship journeys together. This approach enhances employability, provides career clarity, and maximises opportunities for future growth.
Summary:
  • Degrees offer knowledge and critical thinking.
  • Internships provide practical experience, networking, and exposure to the workplace.
  • Employers value candidates with both education and hands-on skills.
  • Planning degrees and internships together gives students a competitive edge.

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