University of Alabama students play an integral role in the work of the Center for Public Television & Radio, where those with commitment are nurtured and valued as professional partners along side full time staff. Depending on qualifications and compatible schedules, there are hands-on internship opportunities for production experience that may also offer course credit or pay while building industry references and a professional sample reel. Students are encouraged to apply early in their academic careers and at least one semester in advance. CPT&R also works closely with the university’s commercial station WVUA 23/7 in coordinating applications for positions in broadcast news.

For more information about student positions contact Mike Letcher, 205-348-6210, or e-mail mletcher@cpt.ua.edu.

Internship specialties

The Production House

Best suited to those interested in TV/film production:  producing, writing, videography, graphic design and editing rather than news.  These positions are not entry level in that they require some demonstrated skills in these crafts. Applicants should have taken basic production courses or done independent work to fully qualify.  Larger blocks of available time such as full mornings or afternoons are needed.  As with other positions, application a semester in advance is usually required and includes a firm class schedule and available work hours.  

Sports Production Unit

Multi-camera live or live to tape coverage of UA athletic events including: men's and women's basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and softball. For those interested in careers in general television production or sports. Positions are similar to those in newscast production: camera, graphics, audio, and tape replay.  Some opportunities may exist for those with experience in on-air commentary. Basic production skills are preferred but some on-the-job training is also provided. Must have significant availability late afternoons, evenings and weekends.  Application a semester in advance including class and availability schedules increases chances for acceptance. 

Full-Time Single Camera Field Production Internship (2 semesters)

Full Time paid employment for two semesters through the UA Cooperative Education program.  Intended for students with prior experience in videography, who have a career interest in documentary, corporate or narrative videography/cinematography, and in enhancing their sample reel. Position is assistant and understudy to CPT videographers, and involves hands-on training with professional equipment including HD cameras.  Advanced lighting techniques. Curriculum includes readings and independent shooting projects as well as work on documentaries and corporate/client projects.  Extensive travel with travel expenses paid.  Secondary experience options, such as editing and producing can be tailored to the individual career interests of the student.  Co-op students do not take classes while employed but are considered full-time students. Junior status or above. 

WUAL News - Reporting and Producing

News gathering, writing, and reporting experience at National Public Radio affiliate.  For those interested in a career in news. On-the-job training provided for those with some basic research and writing skills, and a serious commitment.   

WVUA News – Reporting and Producing

For those specifically interested in a news career. Students begin in support roles and build skills that may lead to reporting opportunities. Openings are somewhat limited. Selection is based on experience in specific skill areas and availability schedule. There is often a delay of weeks or months between initial application and contact for interview.  Therefore it is best to apply a semester in advance once class schedule and other commitments are known.    

WVUA News - Newscast production crew

Camera, teleprompter, audio, graphics, and tape operation during live newscasts. Good experience both for those interested a career in news and in general television production.  Entry level students start at basic positions and receive on-the-job training to advance to higher skilled slots. As with reporting and producing, openings are limited. Selection considers experience, but is largely based on dependability and availability for night and weekend newscasts.  There is often a delay of weeks or months between initial application and contact for interview.  Therefore it is best to apply a semester in advance once class schedule and other commitments are known.