Prior to the Practicum

Practica projects can be carried out over a semester, a year (e.g. 7 hours/week x 40 weeks = 280 hours) or during the summer (e.g. 35 hours/week x 8 = 280 hours), depending on the student’s schedule and the needs of the sponsoring organization. Although the practicum can be completed at anytime during the two-year program, it is recommended that students complete all or a large portion of their practicum prior to beginning work on their master's thesis in the third semester. There are increased opportunities for the practicum experience to catalyze the thesis experience for those who complete their practicum before the third semester.

Many factors influence a student's final practicum selection. Although it is helpful to have specific identified interests, the practicum also affords a great opportunity to explore areas of potential interest that requires only a short-term commitment. Some students use this time to learn more about areas they may be considering for a career.

As students are balancing their areas of interest, family commitments, geographic and financial constraints, it may help to consider some of the following questions:

How geographically mobile am I? Do I want to do a domestic or an international practicum? Must my practicum be in NYC?
What do I envision myself doing after graduation?
Do I want to use my practicum as a possible future job placement and, if so, in what job or agency do I envision myself working after graduation?
What skills would I like to practice in my practicum? What would I like to learn?
Do I have career goals that include further academic pursuits, such as obtaining a PhD or other advanced degree?
Do I want to do a practicum that offers the possibility of a publication or presentation at a scientific session?
How important are financial consideration, such as whether my practicum must be paid?
Do I want to do my thesis as an extension of my practicum?