Some students may have already submitted their university applications and are now eagerly awaiting decisions. Others might still be in the process of finalizing their choices, while some have already received their offers and are preparing for the next steps. No matter where you are in the application process, it’s a great time to start thinking about how you can make the most of your university experience—beyond just your courses. This is where hands-on learning comes in. Experiential learning opportunities will play a big role in shaping your education, helping you connect what you learn in class to real-world situations.
In this blog post, the first in a three-part series, we’ll explore some of the most important experiential learning opportunities you should keep in mind as you plan how to make the most of your university degree. We’ll cover internships, co-op programs, fieldwork, practicums, and clinical placements—all designed to help you gain practical experience while earning your degree.
1. Internships and Co-op Programs
Internships: Internships are a great way to get hands-on experience in a career field you’re interested in, even before you finish your degree. They allow you to work with professionals, learn new skills, and see what a job in your field really looks like. Internships often last several months (like during a summer term), which means you likely won’t have to pause your studies or extend your degree and you’ll have the opportunity to build lasting relationships. Some are paid, while others offer academic credit instead of a paycheck. Even if an internship is unpaid, it can still be incredibly valuable in helping you build your resume and learn what you enjoy (or don’t enjoy!) in a particular job.
Co-op Programs: If you’re looking for a more structured way to get work experience while studying, co-op programs (short for Cooperative Education) could be perfect. These programs let you alternate between studying in class and working in a job related to your degree. Co-op positions are often paid, so you’ll earn money while gaining important skills and building your professional network. For many students, completing several co-op terms while at university leads to job offers after graduation.
Example: The University of Waterloo is known for its strong co-op program, especially in fields like engineering, business, computer science, and more. Students there can do several paid co-op work terms during their studies, which helps them gain real-world experience and connect with top employers.
2. Fieldwork and Practicums
Fieldwork: If you’re considering a degree in areas like environmental science, biology, or geography, fieldwork will likely be a key part of your studies. Fieldwork is when you get out of the classroom and into real-world environments, like forests, oceans, or even cities, to conduct research or gather data. It’s a great way to see how your academic learning applies to actual situations, and it can make your studies more exciting and engaging. Fieldwork also helps you develop practical skills that will be useful in your future job.
Practicums: Some university programs, particularly in fields like education, social work, nursing, and other healthcare areas, include practicums. These are placements where you get to work directly with people in professional settings—like helping in a classroom or working in a hospital. While generally unpaid, practicums allow you to put what you’re learning into action under the guidance of professionals, helping you build confidence and hands-on experience in your field.
Example: Simon Fraser University offers many field-based learning opportunities for students studying environmental science. Whether it’s conducting research in local ecosystems or collaborating with environmental organizations, these opportunities give students the chance to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.
3. Clinical and Healthcare Experience
Clinical Placements and Healthcare Experience: For students thinking about pursuing careers in healthcare fields like nursing, physiotherapy, or pharmacy, clinical placements are an essential part of university life. These placements give you hands-on experience working with patients in settings like hospitals or clinics, allowing you to practice the skills you’ve learned in the classroom. Clinical placements are an excellent way to gain experience in a healthcare environment, learn from professionals, and get a better sense of what it’s like to work in the field.
Example: The University of British Columbia (UBC) provides clinical placements for its nursing students in various healthcare settings. This hands-on experience is invaluable in preparing students to work with patients and get a feel for what a career in healthcare involves.
Start Thinking About How Experiential Learning Can Benefit You
As you begin to think about your future university degree, it’s important to keep in mind that your education isn’t just about sitting in lectures and writing papers. Participating in experiential learning opportunities—like internships, co-op programs, fieldwork, practicums, and clinical placements—can help you develop the skills, experience, and confidence you’ll need to succeed in your future career.
These opportunities allow you to explore different career paths, gain professional experience, and build a network of contacts in the industry. They also make you much more attractive to employers when you graduate, giving you a head start as you look for your first job after university.
All three parts of this series are available now. Check out part two and part three, where we explore even more ways you can make the most of your university degree and set yourself up for success. The earlier you start thinking about these opportunities, the better prepared you’ll be to make the most of your university journey!
Want to discuss your options? Contact us today to book with one of our experienced educational consultants.
