The Assembly Session Internship includes an academic component beginning with a five-day Orientation to state government and the legislative process. Each student is enrolled in the course, "Politics and Policy in the New York State Legislative Process," taught by the Assembly's Professors-in-Residence. Required readings are assigned by the Faculty; some are available as books, which the students are expected to purchase; other readings will be provided by the Intern Office. The Faculty also provides supervision and research advisement through individual meetings and group discussions with Interns during which their progress is monitored. Mid-Session and Final Evaluations are sent to college liaison officers.

Orientation includes review of legislative research, the role of Interns in their office placements, the relationship between the Legislative and Executive branches, political parties in the Legislature, communication skills and the budget process. Policy Forums examine issues before the legislature, reviewing factors that shape these concerns. Experts in the areas of government and academia join legislators in presenting a review of the legislative process.

The National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS) has revalidated the Assembly Session Internship. Credit recommendations established in 2007: "In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 15 semester hours in appropriate departments or as general elective credit." To view a copy of the NCCRS revalidation site report, please visit us online at: https://nyassembly.gov/internship/.