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Welcome

Student Advisors/Placement Officers are here to guide and support students in successfully preparing for the experiential learning component of their program. A key part of this preparation is ensuring that all pre-placement requirements are fully completed in a timely and accurate manner.

Students are responsible for reviewing their program-specific requirements and submitting all necessary documentation before their placement start date. These requirements may include, but are not limited to, a valid police record check, immunization records, CPR/First Aid certification, workplace safety training, and any additional documentation required by host organizations or regulatory bodies.

Program specific requirements for field placement /clinical practicums will be communicated to students via DCMail or Prep Courses on DC Connect. Because requirements vary by program, it’s important to review the appropriate program list below to understand what is needed for your program. 

What is Experiential Learning?

Experiential Learning supports students in gaining hands-on learning that helps them transition to employment. It incorporates Work Integrated Learning but is broader in its recognition of activities that prepare students to succeed in the workforce.

Experiential Learning can take place on-campus or at an external host site such as a hospital, clinic, community organization, corporate organization, small business or in one of Durham College’s community clinics on campus.

You may see the following terms referred to:

  1. Field Placement: is a structured learning experience where you work in a real-world setting related to your program of study. It’s sometimes also called a practicum, internship, or placement (depending on the program). Field placement can take place off campus at a host site or on campus in one of Durham College’s departments or community clinics.
  1. Clinical Placement: is a scheduled, hands‑on learning experience in a professional office or healthcare setting where students practice real-world skills under the supervision of a licensed professional (such as a preceptor). It provides the practical work experience required for professional licensure or certification. A clinical placement can be completed off campus at a host location or may be completed on campus in one of our community clinics.
  1. Practicum: is a supervised, hands‑on learning experience that connects classroom theory to real‑world practice, allowing students to build practical skills under the guidance of an experienced professional.  A practicum can be completed off campus at a host location or may be completed on campus in one of Durham College’s community clinics.
  1. Co-operative Education (Co-op): is a model of education that formally integrates a student’s academic learning with workplace learning in fields relevant to the student’s academic and personal goals.  Co-op provides students with structured work experiences with approved employers that promote career exploration, expand employer contacts and apply in-class teachings to real-work situations. Students participating in their program’s co-op option will receive direct communications from the Experiential Learning Hub and/or their co-operative education coordinator during the job search semester(s). For more information regarding co-op please go to: https://durhamcollege.ca/student-life/student-services/co-operative-education 

Programs

How to Complete the Verified Pre-Placement Electronic Requirements Verification Process

Need Help?

If you’re unsure about your requirements or next steps, connect with your Student Advisors/Placement Officers, they’re here to help you succeed in your placement journey.

To ensure equitable work-integrated field placement/clinical practicum learning opportunities are provided to all students, please contact the Access & Support Centre for assistance in developing field placement access plans if required.