What Are Practicum Courses

Practicum courses are courses that provide college students with an opportunity to gain practical experience in their subject area by working in a specific job related to their field of study. These courses are often taken by students in their senior year of college and involve a three- to six-month placement in which students work closely with a professional mentor to develop skills and gain hands-on experience in their chosen field. Practicum courses are designed to give students a better understanding of their chosen profession, which will help them better transition into professional life upon graduation. Students in a practicum course are expected to quantify and analyze the assignments they complete, giving them a taste of the real-world experience prior to achieving a degree. At the end of the practicum period, students will write a reflective portfolio summarizing the activities they undertook and what they have learned from the experience. This allows them to demonstrate their skills and capabilities to future employers.