As a follow-up to our blog on co-ops and internships, let's take a closer look at some of the practicum and field experience opportunities available across UCalgary. Practicums can be paid or unpaid, depending on the program and placement, and are required components of some degree programs. Whether you're interested in healthcare, education, engineering, social services, or human performance, there are many ways to gain meaningful experience as part of your degree. Work-integrated learning is an important part of the student experience at UCalgary, helping students bridge the gap between academics and professional practice while developing confidence in their chosen field. 

Students in the Faculty of Kinesiology have the opportunity to participate in practicums that provide valuable professional experience and course credit. These placements allow students to work directly with organizations in areas related to kinesiology, helping them build professional networks, gain practical experience, and explore potential career directions. Students may complete up to three practicums during their degree, each with a different organization, giving them exposure to a variety of workplace settings. To be eligible, students must have completed at least two years of study in either the Bachelor of Kinesiology or Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program. Practicum placements require between 60 and 72 hours of workplace experience over the course of a term, allowing students to put their classroom knowledge into practice while continuing their studies.

In the Schulich School of Engineering, experiential learning is a key component of the student experience. Engineering students are required to complete a work-integrated learning component during their degree, and one way to meet this requirement is through the Engineering Career Practicum program. Designed for motivated first- and second-year students, the program allows participants to gain relevant industry experience early in their academic journey. Students can complete a placement during the spring and summer months or pursue part-time work during the fall and winter semesters. Through a minimum of 350 hours of hands-on experience, students develop technical and professional skills while gaining insight into the engineering profession. The Engineering Career Centre also provides support and guidance throughout the process, helping students prepare for future career opportunities. 

Students pursuing a degree through the Faculty of Social Work will complete field education placements as a core part of their program. These practicums provide opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world social work practice, allowing students to work directly within community organizations and service settings. Through field education, students gain a deeper understanding of the profession, develop essential skills, and explore the diverse areas in which social workers make an impact. These experiences play a vital role in helping students grow both professionally and personally as they prepare for careers supporting individuals, families, and communities.

The Faculty of Nursing offers extensive clinical learning opportunities throughout the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Beginning in the middle stages of the degree and continuing through to graduation, students complete clinical placements in a variety of healthcare settings, including community health, long-term care, hospitals, clinics, and acute care environments. These placements allow students to apply nursing theory in real healthcare situations while building their clinical judgment, communication skills, and confidence. In the program's final term, students spend the majority of their time in a practice setting working one-on-one with a registered nurse preceptor, gaining valuable experience as they transition toward professional nursing practice. The final practicum alone includes hundreds of hours in a healthcare environment, helping students consolidate their learning before graduation. 

Future teachers studying in the Werklund School of Education also gain extensive hands-on experience in classroom settings as part of their degree. Bachelor of Education students complete 20 weeks of in-classroom practicum experience throughout their program, providing substantial exposure to the realities of teaching and learning in schools. During Field Experience I, students visit a variety of classrooms and begin exploring life as an educator. As they progress through Field Experiences II, III, and IV, they work closely with experienced partner teachers who mentor and support them as they gradually take on increasing classroom responsibilities. By the end of the program, many student teachers have developed the confidence, practical skills, and professional experience needed to successfully begin their teaching careers. 

One of the greatest benefits of practicums and work-integrated learning opportunities is the chance to discover what a future career may actually look like before graduating. These experiences allow students to apply theory to practice, gain relevant workplace skills, build professional networks, and develop a stronger understanding of their strengths and interests. For many students, hands-on learning becomes one of the most valuable and memorable parts of their university experience.

If you're looking for a degree that combines academic learning with meaningful real-world experience, UCalgary offers countless pathways to help you build your skills, explore your career options, and graduate feeling prepared for whatever comes next.