sesp.northwestern.edu/ugrad/practicum

The Practicum

At the School of Education and Social Policy, we go beyond classroom learning. Experiential learning is a critical aspect of a SESP education, and students frequently describe the junior year practicum as the highlight of their four years of college. Juniors participate in hands-on internships, research or community service. To complete the practicum requirement, students spend one term at an off-campus internship that's relevant to their interests and are enrolled in SESP 392-0 Experiential Learning: Practicum.

An academic component complements the hands-on practicum experience. Students attend a concurrent seminar where they systematically examine their on-site experiences, reflect on their own performance and career interests. Students earn four academic credits, which are core requirements for graduation. Students receiving financial aid may apply for it to cover the cost of tuition.

The Practicum can also be completed abroad via SESP 392-SA Experiential Learning: Practicum Study Abroad. This course is affiliated through Northwestern University's Global Learning Office and is currently offered in Milan, Italy. 

Summer Field Studies Program

The SESP Field Studies Program gives students the opportunity to make solid professional contributions to an organization while benefiting from experiential learning. The one-quarter program carries 4 units of credit. Students intern at their sites for 30 hours a week and attend a weekly Practicum Analysis Seminar.

During Summer Session any Northwestern undergraduate student is able to complete the program any where in the US (SESP 392-0 Experiential Learning: Practicum) in addition to the Chicago area. Program sites expose students to the breadth and depth of issues and activities within a field. They experience new skills and responsibilities through the projects they carry out from start to finish. Their supervising mentors meet with them individually for at least one hour per week.