Finding a Site
The SESP practicum director aims to match student interests with the missions and needs of organizations and assists with the practicum search. A wide variety of practicum sites are available to students of all majors. Students have secured practicums in hospitals, community programs, counseling centers, policy/advocacy centers, legal organizations, schools, nonprofit organizations, corporations, and government. The practicum director works closely with site coordinators in San Francisco, Chicago and Washington, D.C., who assist students with their search process. Students may also propose sites to meet their personal goals.
Site Supervisors
The supervisor at the practicum site acts as a mentor and introduces the student to professional practices and expectations in the organization. The student works with the supervisor before the Field Studies experience to develop an action plan in line with the student’s goals. Students usually work on one or two key projects that help them grow in their capacity to learn from experience and think as professionals.
Eligibility
Any Northwestern undergraduate student with sophomore standing may apply to a Field Studies Program. Juniors and seniors are given priority.
Prerequisite
The only course prerequisite is Methods of Observing Human Behavior (SESP 372), which is offered every quarter. A comparable course in another school may be substituted with permission from the director. Students who are not in SESP are also encouraged to contact their academic advisor to determine how the two credits awarded for Field Studies will apply toward their degree requirements.
Costs and Housing
Participants pay tuition for the quarter as well as the cost of room and board, travel to and from the Field Studies city, and commuting to and from the practicum site. The School of Education and Social Policy has arranged housing in San Francisco and Washington, D.C., that is close to public transportation and designed for community living. Chicago students make their own housing arrangement. Students may apply for summer funding if they participated in financial aid during the academic year. Students who are on financial aid may apply for financial aid to cover the cost of summer tuition and housing.
Photo: After 10 years of service, the Field Studies program in San Francisco was honored for its contributions to the city. Professor Dan Lewis and Field Studies students display the mayor's proclamation.
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