Office of Public Health Practice

Pulling it Together

All practicum arrangements are the student's responsibility. SPH faculty and staff from the Office of Public Health Practice can assist you in clarifying your goals and identifying potential sites. Your search for a practicum should begin no later than the beginning of the semester prior to the semester your practice experience starts.  You must complete a practicum orientation session before you start the practicum.  A checklist outlining the process for the practicum is available.  If you are interested in using your practicum to fulfill the culminating experience requirement, you must follow the school-wide policies and guidelines as documented. 

The following guidelines should assist you in finding the right placement.

  • Determine your academic goals and professional interest -- what do you want from this experience?

  • Develop a resume to emphasize your skills. Student Affairs has information to help you develop and personalize your resume.

  • Identify possible sites -- Talk with students, faculty, Office of Public Health Practice staff and check out the Finding a Practicum Section.

  • Select potential sites based on your interests, learning objectives and career plans.

  • Be prepared for interviews.

  • Contact SPH faculty to discuss the pros and cons of the sites you are considering.

  • Contact the sites and discuss the opportunity.

  • Clarify the following:

    • project goals
    • methods and timelines
    • deliverable
    • location
    • community preceptor

  • Select a faculty sponsor.

  • Arrange a meeting with your community preceptor and faculty sponsor. At this time, the following items should be clarified:

    • objectives
    • methods and timelines
    • final product

  • The Learning Contract should be completed and signed by the student, community preceptor and faculty sponsor and submitted to the Office of Public Health Practice/Regional Coordinator before starting the practicum.

  • Register for PH9997.  One of the requirements is participation in a bi-weekly seminar during the semester of your practicum. (Effective January 2007)

  • Primary supervision during the practicum is provided by the community preceptor. Your faculty sponsor is available as needed.