Experiential Learning
Where learning and doing are one and the same.
We believe experiencing is foundational to learning. So you’ll be applying what you learn right away—in class and out.
Big city, bigger classroom
Indianapolis is big (the 16th largest city in the United States), but not too big. That means you can easily connect with growing organizations that are hungry for new talent like you. From start-ups and non-profits to global tech and healthcare giants, you’ll find plenty of open doors just outside our campus. Wherever you want to go, there’s no better city to get your start.
Internships
Put Your Lessons to Work
Here’s a secret: Employers love students with on-the-job experience because they get a head start on lessons that can’t be taught, like problem solving and bouncing back when things don’t go exactly to plan. (Free advice: Nothing goes exactly to plan.) More than 75 percent of Butler students hold at least one internship before they graduate—and if you’re a business student, you’ll have two. That pays off: Every year, more than 3,000 companies knock on our door seeking students for internships and jobs.
Service-Learning
Care Starts Here
There are colleges where you can spend four years and not know there’s a world outside campus. Butler isn’t one of those places. We’ve built community into the curriculum. Both our Indianapolis Community Requirement and Social Justice and Diversity courses give you a deeper look into your home in Indianapolis, and encourage connection with the people and places throughout the city. (Don’t be surprised if you find yourself volunteering long after these classes are done. When you get to know Indy, you’ll want to be part of it.)
Undergraduate Research
Ask and Answer
The difference between reading about research and conducting it yourself is like the difference between taking a guided tour of a place and setting off on your own: Both are valuable. But one gives you a chance to go where your curiosity takes you. At Butler, exploration is part of the deal. Even as an undergrad, you’ll have a chance to work directly with faculty members as part of a small team, conducting primary research on topics that matter. Our students have asked big-impact questions, like how babies with hearing impairments interact with their parents and how feminist ideals are portrayed in the media. And you’ll get the chance to share your findings on campus and beyond, at conferences and in papers.
Study Abroad
Come to Indy, See the World
We love Indianapolis. But the world is a big place. And there’s no better time to see it than while you’re in college. So get your passport: We offer more than 300 study abroad programs in over 50 countries. Maybe you’ll work full-time in China. Or complete a leadership program in London. In fact, our Global Adventures in the Liberal Arts program is ranked among the country’s 50 best study-abroad programs.
Hands-On Learning in Action
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Abroad in France, Damian Boric ’27 chose a program that allowed him to combine his passions for theatre and travel. Taking classes and exploring Bordeaux and Paris, he is most proud of his self-confidence and artistic growth.
Environmental Studies major Zoe Dybowski ’25 has enjoyed learning about waste diversion while interning at Ruoff Music Center. She feels prepared for a future in conservation and is proud of her work at such a significant venue. Learn more about Zoe’s story at the link in our bio.
At Butler, we believe that experience is foundational to learning. As a media intern at Medxcel, Samantha Pumridge ’25 is applying the skills learned in her strategic communication courses to the “real world,” preparing her for a career in digital marketing.
We’re known for providing students with numerous opportunities to experience new places and cultures.