The U.S. Department of Labor does not have an official definition of internship or externship. However, generally speaking, differences between internships and apprenticeships fall into in the following areas: length of time, structure, mentorship, pay, credentials, and college credit.

Yes! Most apprenticeship opportunities include on-the-job learning and classroom instruction provided by apprenticeship training centers, technical schools, community colleges, and four-year colleges and universities, sometimes through distance learning.

Civilian apprenticeship programs offer advanced standing or provide credit hours for, military training and experience. Any service member can pursue a skill unrelated to their military training and experience. 

Apprenticeship programs help employers recruit and develop a highly skilled workforce; improve productivity; create flexible training options; minimize liability costs; receive tax credits and employee tuition benefits; and increase retention of workers.