UTD's New CPT Policy Limits Work Experience for International Students
The Issue
As an international student at the University of Texas at Dallas, I’ve been directly affected by a recent policy change that seems deeply unfair, particularly to those of us pursuing a degree in the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS). The university’s new stipulation that Curricular Practical Training (CPT) will not be granted unless an internship is a mandatory component of the curriculum places us in a tough spot, stripping away vital opportunities for gaining valuable work experience in the U.S.
Internships are more than just a supplemental part of education; they are a crucial element to our learning and development. The current job market is fiercely competitive, and work experience gained through internships can often be the deciding factor for employment post-graduation. For international students, these opportunities are even more critical due to the inherent difficulties we face, such as adapting to a new culture and navigating visa restrictions.
Given that the ECS field is dynamically evolving, requiring practical, hands-on experience, this policy disproportionately hinders international students, who already face significant barriers in terms of gaining work experience in the United States. Without an internship requirement built into our program, we are effectively barred from obtaining a CPT, which is often the only realistic route for gaining practical training and enhancing our employability.
The current policy isn't just a logistical hurdle—it’s a barrier to our growth and success. Allowing international ECS students the chance to participate in internships not only benefits individual students but also enriches the university’s reputation by fostering graduates who are well-prepared to excel in their fields.
We ask the University of Texas at Dallas to reconsider its stance on the necessity of internships within the ECS program. By mandating internships, UTD can facilitate access to CPT for international students, granting us the invaluable chance to gain critical skills and match the career trajectories of our peers.
Sign this petition to support a change in UTD's internship requirements for ECS majors, opening the door for deserving students to achieve their full potential, both academically and professionally.
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The Issue
As an international student at the University of Texas at Dallas, I’ve been directly affected by a recent policy change that seems deeply unfair, particularly to those of us pursuing a degree in the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS). The university’s new stipulation that Curricular Practical Training (CPT) will not be granted unless an internship is a mandatory component of the curriculum places us in a tough spot, stripping away vital opportunities for gaining valuable work experience in the U.S.
Internships are more than just a supplemental part of education; they are a crucial element to our learning and development. The current job market is fiercely competitive, and work experience gained through internships can often be the deciding factor for employment post-graduation. For international students, these opportunities are even more critical due to the inherent difficulties we face, such as adapting to a new culture and navigating visa restrictions.
Given that the ECS field is dynamically evolving, requiring practical, hands-on experience, this policy disproportionately hinders international students, who already face significant barriers in terms of gaining work experience in the United States. Without an internship requirement built into our program, we are effectively barred from obtaining a CPT, which is often the only realistic route for gaining practical training and enhancing our employability.
The current policy isn't just a logistical hurdle—it’s a barrier to our growth and success. Allowing international ECS students the chance to participate in internships not only benefits individual students but also enriches the university’s reputation by fostering graduates who are well-prepared to excel in their fields.
We ask the University of Texas at Dallas to reconsider its stance on the necessity of internships within the ECS program. By mandating internships, UTD can facilitate access to CPT for international students, granting us the invaluable chance to gain critical skills and match the career trajectories of our peers.
Sign this petition to support a change in UTD's internship requirements for ECS majors, opening the door for deserving students to achieve their full potential, both academically and professionally.
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Petition created on September 30, 2026