Practicum
Practicum placements bring your academic learning to life! These immersive experiences allow you to apply theory to real-world settings, working directly with children, youth, families, and communities. Under the mentorship of experienced professionals and within instructor-facilitated courses, you will grow your integrated practice and deepen your professional identity.
Overview
- Our degree program includes three supervised practicum experiences
- All practicums are instructor-supported and graded as pass/fail
Students must demonstrate competence in four areas:
- Professionalism and ethical behaviour
- Ability to integrate feedback
- Emotional self-regulation
- Responsibility for learning
CYC 211: Practicum I
CYC 211 is for students without a Human Services diploma. It introduces observation and recording strategies in settings such as early childhood centres and after-school programs. Check the UVic calendar to find out when these practicum courses are scheduled.
CYC 210A is a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) option for students with 2+ years of full-time equivalent, relevant experience. This course evaluates your professional knowledge without requiring a new placement.
Tip: Consider volunteering! First- and second-year students are encouraged to volunteer to enhance their learning and strengthen future practicum applications.
CYC 310 or 311: Practicum II
CYC 310 (year-long) or CYC 311 (block) are Practicum II courses that are offered in the third year of the program. Each option includes 300 hours with clients and coworkers, including consultation with your practicum supervisors. These placements will help you apply a developmental and ecological perspective to your practice before moving into a more advanced or specialized area in 410 or 411. Check the UVic calendar for prerequisites and when these practicum courses are scheduled.
CYC 310A is a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) if you have 5+ years of relevant full-time equivalent child and youth care experience.
| Format | Course | Duration | Weekly Hours | Total Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year-Long | CYC 310 | Sept-April | 10-15 | 300 |
| Block | CYC 311 | May-Aug | ~25 | 300 |
CYC 410 or 411: Advanced Practicum
CYC 410 (year-long) or CYC 411 (block) are Advanced Practicum courses that are offered online in the fourth year of the program. Each option includes 300 hours with clients and coworkers, including consultation with your practicum supervisors. These placements are typically more specialized and will allow you to gain practical work experience in an area of interest before completing your degree. Check the UVic calendar for prerequisites and when these practicum courses are scheduled.
Note: Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is not available for Advanced Practicum.
| Format | Course | Duration | Weekly Hours | Total Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year-Long | CYC 410 | Sept-April | 10-15 | 300 |
| Block | CYC 411 | Any term | ~25 | 300 |
International Practicum
Offered only through CYC 411 (block), international practicums are available to experienced, self-directed students with strong academic standing.
Requirements:
- Completion of all program coursework
- Access to internet/email
- Submission of a complete proposal and budget
- Interview by CYC international practicum committee
| Start term | Apply by |
|---|---|
| May-August (Summer term) | September 15 |
| September-December (Fall term) | January 15 |
| January-April (Spring term) | April 15 |
Criminal Record Check
Before starting your practicum, you must have a valid Criminal Record Check (CRC) on file with the School of Child and Youth Care. This is a requirement for all practicum placements, in BC and out-of-province.
For BC Residents
Apply online through the BC Ministry of Public Safety & Solicitor General.
- Access Code: PEUSJ6GVEB
- Fee: $28.00 (payable once your application is received)
- CRCs are valid for 5 years from the date of issue—no need to reapply for each practicum.
- If using your BC Services Card for identity verification, ensure it’s activated.
Watch a step-by-step application video.
Sharing a Previous CRC: If you completed a BC Ministry CRC for another BC post-secondary program, you may be able to share your clearance at no cost. Note: Police or RCMP clearances cannot be shared.
For Students Outside BC
Follow your province’s requirements and send a copy of your completed CRC with a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) to cycpract@uvic.ca before your practicum start date.
Prior Learning Assessment
If you have significant, relevant work experience, you may be eligible to meet certain practicum requirements through a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).
- PLA is only available for CYC 211 or CYC 310 (not for CYC 410/411)
- Offered only in September
- Requires departmental permission and a formal application
- Your prior work will be assessed against the core practicum competencies
- You must provide clear evidence of your experience
| PLA Course | Eligibility | Replaces |
|---|---|---|
| CYC 210A | 2+ years |
Practicum I |
| CYC 310A | 5+ years | Practicum II |
How to Apply for Practicum
If you're ready to apply for practicum, prepare your cover letter, résumé and practicum application form and submit them online through the UVic Brightspace portal. Submit your materials online through the Brightspace portal by the date specified for your program. If you're a newly admitted student and plan to complete a Fall practicum, email cycpract@uvic.ca to make arrangements.
Application dates for completing a practicum in Canada:
- Apply by April 15 for practicum starting in September
- Apply by September 15 for practicum starting in January or May
Note: PLA applicants should email the practicum coordinator to request a PLA Application Form.
Questions? Contact the CYC advising team:
cycadvising@uvic.ca
250-721-6471