An apprenticeship is normally in a trade (electrician, plumber, etc) and is basically on the job training.

An internship is actually part of any given course (s) at school and is similar to lab or fieldwork. A company offering internship to an institute of higher learning often does not set the responsibilities/work of the student. More often than not it is the school that sets the nature of the work the student performs. The company does not expect a return on their investment since it is rare that a company realizes a benefit from a course driven program. The benefit to the company comes into play down the road when the work pool to choose and hire from is considerably better qualified due to internships. An internship program is a short term project of 6 months to 1 year.

Apprenticeship, on the other hand, is a 4 – 5 year commitment and is very much like on-the-job training. This benefits the company greatly from the beginning of the apprenticeship. A person who takes on an apprenticeship knows that most times being an apprentice is the only way to get into the field and land the job they may be studying for. One does not necessarily need to be a student while apprenticing. Many apprenticeships begin when schooling ends. Apprenticeships benefit both the employer and employee in many tangible ways whereas an internship does not. An intern does not necessarily expect to be hired by the company they are interning with. An apprentice, on the other hand, not only expects it but is desirous of a job with that particular company.