HLTH 5506 Practicum Pathway (Field Research and Placement)
The practicum pathway allows students to gain experience by completing two 12-week practicums (a 12 week practicum is the equivalent of 420 hours i.e., equivalent of 35 hours per week for 12 weeks) or one 24-week practicum of 840 hours i.e., equivalent of 35 hours per week for 24 weeks) at an appropriate organization (e.g. public health unit, provincial or federal governmental agency or non-governmental organization). Thus, the practicum must be completed on a full-time basis over two terms of the program.
You will find a practicum that aligns with your interests and career goals and where you will apply your knowledge and skills in a professional setting. You will consult with the HSTP Coordinator and Graduate Administrator in your search for a practicum placement.
Course Description
• The practicum provides an opportunity for students to apply the theory and knowledge gained in coursework to new projects and experiences in professional settings
• Students must have a qualified practicum supervisor, and all projects must be approved by the HSTP Coordinator
• Students must successfully complete the fall and winter courses (HLTH 5100, HLTH 5150, HLTH 5201, HLTH 5300, HLTH 5350, HLTH 5402) prior to initiating a practicum placement
• Throughout the practicum, it is essential for students to reflect on and record their experiences and to engage in regular discussions with their practicum supervisor about their practicum progress
Practicum (Field Research and Placement) Objectives
The student and practicum supervisor will establish the practicum objectives. The objectives are negotiated prior to the initiation of the practicum. Generally, the student will:
• Enhance core Health: Science, Technology and Policy competencies
• Undertake work/projects that are relevant to the student’s objectives, areas of interest and supervisor’s needs and objectives
• Experience hands-on application of coursework through participation in work activities of partner health-focused organization
FAQ’s
- How do I find a practicum?
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Students are responsible for their practicum search, with support from the HSTP Coordinator and Graduate Administrator Practicum Coordinator. Some practicums might be available through the Department and will be posted by the HSTP Coordinator. Once the practicum has been secured, students will work with the practicum supervisor to complete a learning contract. The practicum is a mandatory component of HSTP Practicum stream and can be initiated only after all core coursework is complete.
Students are encouraged to ask themselves the following questions as they prepare for their practicum search:
• What are my career goals?
• How will my practicum help me develop knowledge and skills relevant to this career direction?
• What competencies would I like to develop through my practicum?
• What type of organizations am I interested in for my practicum?
• Do I have any connections or networks with any of these organizations?
- When do I start looking for a practicum?
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Students should begin to look for practicum placements as early as possible (fall/winter semesters in the first year). Students must allow enough time to contact organizations, seek approval from the HSTP Coordinator, and go through the partner organization placement hiring processes. This process could take between 4-12 months.
- Are practicum placements graded?
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Students will be evaluated (and a letter grade will be recorded) by the practicum site supervisor in consultation with the HSTP Coordinator.
- Can practicums be paid?
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Stipends or payment may be available at some practicum sites, but it is not guaranteed. Unfortunately, not all agencies are able or allowed to pay students.
- Where have students completed practicums?
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While the Practicum Stream is a new option for HSTP students in the 2024-2026 cohort, past students have completed elective placements at the following organizations:
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• Health Canada
• Queensway Carleton Hospital
• Office of International Affairs Health Portfolio
• Carleton University Accessibility Institute
• Canadian National Institute for the Blind
• Can Immunize
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