One company has helped create more internship opportunities by expanding its own 2009 program.

QuinStreet, Inc., which provides vertical media and marketing online, has expanded its internship program, which will continue through 2010. The program offers in-depth training and industry-related work experience to graduate level college students, primarily those in the process of earning an MBA.

QuinStreet is one of the few companies that have been able to increase the size of their internship programs. The economy has overall hurt student job prospects, with large employers decreasing the number internships by about one-fifth this year.

"We're in a unique position to offer internship opportunities to bright students looking to acquire practical, working knowledge with an industry leader," Michelle Berry, vice president of performance management at QuinStreet, said. "Our expanded internship program is one of the ways QuinStreet contributes to the growth and development of the online marketing industry. Of course, a second critical goal for us is to find and retain highly-talented professionals."

The company's expanded program is designed to help students practice and develop their online marketing skills in a professional, fast-paced environment. The company says its interns will benefit from:

• Networking - students have an opportunity to receive mentoring from industry leading professionals, possibly leading to future job opportunities
• Work experience - students can apply their knowledge to real-time situations gaining valuable experience and contributing to a student's resume
• Exploring career pathways - internships provide students with the chance to explore first hand a career of interest

QuinStreet's vertical media and marketing business approach offers a range of opportunities for potential interns in a number of industries.