Practicum placements

The Disability Studies program gives you the opportunity to learn through practice during 600 hours of supervised practical experience with one of more than 150 partner agencies. In the second year of the program, you’ll have the opportunity to focus on a specific area of interest in your practicum placements.

Some of our placement agencies include:

Calgary SCOPE Society — a non-profit agency providing a wide range of high-quality, innovative services that support people with disabilities to be respected, contributing Calgarians.

Chrysalis — offers assessment, vocational training, employment and alternatives to employment for individuals with disabilities.

Optional Rehabilitation Services (OPTIONS) — provides support to children, adults and seniors who are developmentally disabled, physically challenged, have a dual diagnosis, or are hearing impaired, deaf, blind, and/or behaviourally challenged.

Rehoboth — provides home and realistic work environments for people with disabilities. These environments encourage skill training and acquisition, and promote social interaction and spiritual growth. Rebobothalso offers relief services for families with a member who has a disability; and outreach programs that assist individuals living within their own home.

Providence Child Centre — While your practical training occurs in both years of the program, it is in the second year that you will have the opportunity to focus on areas of particular interest to you through both student-directed assignments and practicum placements.)

International practicum

In addition to working with Calgary-based agencies, you may apply for an international practicum.

An international practicum gives you new perspectives on rehabilitation, greater cultural awareness and an appreciation of comparative social policies. This opportunity is open to all first- and second-year students. Check out other international education options:

More International Education information.

Criminal record check

At the time of practicum, you will be required, at your own expense, to obtain a criminal record check from the Calgary police. A practicum agency may accept or reject a student for placement or observation experience based on the results of a criminal record or other background check.