Practicums
Get hands-on experience for an impactful career
CUPS is committed to providing learning opportunities for those who are passionate about learning from and working with vulnerable populations. Practicum students are a great asset to the work we do within our community in Calgary.
Practicum opportunities for all kinds of students
Gain real-world experience, develop professional skills, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable community members. CUPS offers a variety of practicum placements to support your learning and growth.
Meet Katie
“My practicum with the CUPS Calgary H4H team was an incredibly rewarding experience. Working alongside dedicated professionals, I was able to improve and apply my skills hands-on in direct client work with support of the team. Additionally, I was able to gain deep insights into the complexities of homelessness and housing insecurity. I was impressed by CUPS’ commitment to improving lives and making a meaningful difference in the community. This experience helped me grow both professionally and personally, and I am grateful to have been part of such a compassionate and impactful team.”
Meet Jayde
“When I chose CUPS for my final nursing practicum, I had no idea how much the experience was going to positively change my life and my nursing practice. My preceptors and honestly the entire health team at CUPS changed the way I think about nursing and healthcare in general. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to solidify my nursing knowledge and start my career as a Registered Nurse.”
Practicum inquiry
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for a practicum at CUPS?
Practicum opportunities are available for students enrolled in accredited programs related to our work. This includes (but is not limited to) social work, healthcare, psychology, early childhood development, administrative support, and other related fields. We welcome students at various stages of their education who are looking for hands-on learning experiences.
How do I apply for a practicum placement?
To apply, submit an inquiry using the form above. Please check with your school for specific practicum requirements and application procedures before completing this step. If we have an available practicum opportunity that aligns with your program, our practicum coordinator will contact you to request your resume, cover letter, and details about your program’s requirements. They will also guide you through the next steps of the placement process. If no practicum opportunities are currently available, our practicum coordinator will reach out to notify you.
What types of practicum experiences are available?
We offer unpaid placements in various areas, including mental health support, family and child development, case management, healthcare services, community outreach, administrative support, and more. Opportunities depend on availability and program fit.
What kind of support and supervision will I receive?
Each student is paired with a supervisor or mentor who provides guidance, feedback, and support throughout the placement. Regular check-ins ensure you are meeting your learning objectives and gaining meaningful experience.
What skills or experience will I gain during my practicum?
Our practicum experience helps bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world practice. Experience will vary depending on the field you’re studying, but most students will develop practical skills in trauma-informed care, interdisciplinary teamwork, and other skills related to the non-profit, health and social services sectors.
Can a practicum lead to a job at CUPS?
While completing a practicum doesn’t guarantee employment in any workplace, many of our practicum students go on to apply for positions within CUPS or use their experience to advance in related careers.
What are the expectations for practicum students?
We expect students to be professional, punctual, and engaged. Practicum students must adhere to confidentiality policies, work collaboratively with staff, and take initiative in their learning experience
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