Bachelor of Applied Child Studies

• Directed Field Studies - General Information
• What kinds of work term opportunities may be available?
• How do I prepare for my Directed Field Studies?
• Who is responsible for what? Student, Employer, Faculty and Coordinator roles
• What about expenses?
• How do I contact the Work Experience Coordinator?

What kinds of work term opportunities may be available?

As a Child Studies student, you could be offered a work term position in Calgary, throughout Alberta and across Canada. It is expected that students will be prepared to relocate for work experience opportunities.

To date, Child Studies Students have had Directed Field Studies opportunities in Calgary, Banff, Edmonton, Canmore, Airdrie, Chestermere, New Zealand, Malaysia and Sri Lanka.

Students' capabilities include program planning and implementation, intervention strategies, research, group facilitation, policy analysis and interview techniques. Students work with children, youth, families and communities in positions such as Child Care Provider, Counsellor, Coordinator, Facilitator, Supervisor, Programmer and Mentor.

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How do I prepare for my Directed Field Studies?

In addition to core Child Studies courses, the Child Studies Faculty and your Work Experience Coordinator work collaboratively to present a series of pre-employment sessions that will assist you in preparing for the job search process.

Topics covered during these sessions may include the following:

• Self assessment
• Resume and cover letter writing
• References and portfolios
• Industry interviewing and hiring practices
• Interview preparation

It is advised that students explore volunteer and/or summer employment opportunities before taking the DFS course, as some positions require additional experience and/or qualifications.

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What about expenses?

By starting to plan now, you can be financially prepared for your work terms. Expenses include:

• Directed Field Studies course fees - see Mount Royal Calendar
• Relocation expenses will be incurred by the student when completing a work term position in a town or city outside of Calgary. Planning for travel expenses to and from the workplace location and paying rent on a different place to live for four months should be budgeted for.
• Many work terms will require the use of a vehicle.
• A Child Welfare Record Check may be requested by the employer.
• Consent to Search and Disclosure of Personal Information (Security Clearance) may be requested by the employer.
• Cost of Official Transcripts if you need to apply for Day Care Staff Qualifications.

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