FAQs
Q: What is the difference between a practicum and an internship?
A: A practicum usually requires fewer hours a week than an internship and is often paired with an academic course for credit. Practicum students usually spend more time in the semester shadowing or observing trained professionals in the field while interns are often expected to take on greater responsibility at the placement site.
Q: When can I complete a 6-credit hour Research or Field Practicum?
A: The HDF 355R course is available in fall, spring, and summer. You may take two consecutive semesters of HDF 355R in the same lab once you have completed any prerequisites and have upper division standing. The HDF 652F/652P course is only available during the fall and spring. You may take this course sometime in your senior year once you have completed any prerequisites. Please contact your academic advisor or review the course catalog for further details.
Q: How do I know if I need to complete a 6-credit hour Research or Field Practicum? When is the best time for me to take complete this course? Which one should I choose?
A: Please contact your academic advisor about your degree requirements and when to take the course. You may also contact them or email the Practicum Coordinator for further guidance on whether to choose the Field or Research Practicum.
Q: How and when do I choose a Field Practicum site?
A: Once you have been accepted to the Practicum Program, you will receive an email from the Practicum Coordinator with further instructions. You typically choose a site the semester before you take the course. You may select one that interests you from a list of over 50 community sites and Site Supervisors with whom we have existing partnerships.
Q: What is the Field Experience course HDF 352/352L?
A: A 10-hour experiential learning opportunity in the community or at the Priscilla Pond Flawn Child and Family Laboratory (UT Lab School). These courses typically do not count toward the Practicum requirement unless you make a two-semester commitment with the UT Lab School.
Q: Are the Research and Field practicums paid positions?
A: No, they are typically unpaid experiential learning opportunities for course credit.
