ELP data

This study investigates how internships and the University’s societal impact shape undergraduate business students’ perceptions of educational quality. Drawing on experiential learning theory (ELT), the research explores how internships influence students' self-confidence, diversity awareness, social identity, and overall perceptions of educational quality. The University’s “Third Mission,” its responsibility for societal engagement, is evaluated, consistent with accreditation frameworks such as AACSB International, to assess its perceived impact on quality. Data were collected via a quantitative survey administered to business students from three AACSB-accredited Midwestern universities in the United States (N=162). Findings indicate that internships, along with students' confidence and diversity awareness, positively impact students’ perceptions of their University’s societal impact, which, in turn, increases their perceptions of educational quality. The direct effect of internships on quality was only marginally significant. The study highlights the importance of integrating experiential learning (EL), skills development, and diversity training into business curricula to support student development and institutional engagement with broader societal challenges. Recommendations are provided for business schools seeking to enhance educational outcomes and community impact through internships.