Practicum

Real world experiences

The practicum component is one of the strengths of the applied degree program in Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership. It will be an exciting and challenging part of your education. The two work terms give you an opportunity to:

• integrate theory and practice
• gain a familiarity with current programs, agencies, policies and procedures
• develop and demonstrate your skills and abilities
• develop a heightened sense of professionalism and ethical practice
• increase your confidence about your suitability for a career in ecotourism and outdoor leadership
• build a network in the industry
• be mentored in a chosen area of interest within the industry

Getting the right opportunity

Your practicum coordinator works closely with you and employers to find just the right placement and to monitor your work experience. To further benefit from this experience, you will also complete assignments and reports to fulfill the academic requirements of these credit courses.

What employers are saying

"Our employment of Mount Royal students has been successful due to the students' familiarity and knowledge of the local area, their keen desire to learn, and their well-balanced understanding of the tourism industry as a whole."

— Gemma White
Marketing Manager
Canadian Rockies Rafting Ltd.

"Over the past two years, we have had a number of Mount Royal Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership Program students working at the Banff Alpine Centre as activities coordinators and hiking guides. Without exception, the students have been enthusiastic, motivated, and professional. They have moved quickly and efficiently into their roles at the hostel and have enriched our community with their energy and leadership. I highly recommend that any prospective employers include Mount Royal students in their organizations."

— Anthony Brook
Activities and Programs Coordinator
Hostelling International - Southern Alberta

"Working with students from Mount Royal has been a wonderful experience. The students have fantastic energy and great skills that they have added to our organization. Their professional attitude and passion for our programs has enhanced the level of our business enormously."

— Leslie De Bie
Friends of Banff

"It was a pleasure to work with [your student] in Kananaskis Country. Her talent, professionalism and amazing enthusiasm speak volumes for your program. Well done!"

— Don Den Hoed
Alberta Parks and Protected Areas

If you are a student and would like to learn more about completing a practicum in the Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership program, email Sarah Kinch.

If you are an employer considering hiring a student for a work term, email Sarah Kinch, ETOL Practicum Coordinator, for more information.

International opportunities

You may get an international practicum placement. In the past, approximately one third of students have chosen the international option. Their destinations have included:

• The United States
• Australia
• The United Kingdom
• Various European cities
• Bermuda
• South Africa
• Solomon Islands

There are also other opportunities to study internationally including exchanges to the U.S. and Mexico through the North American Mobility Program (NAMP).