Child Life Student Opportunities

Child Life Practicum

The child life practicum is an 8-week, entry-level training offered 3 times a year; at the beginning of the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Practicum students are required to complete 2, 6-hour days/week totaling 100 hours. The practicum is intended to introduce the undergraduate or graduate student to the field of child life through observation and supervised participation. Practicum students will observe a variety of experiences facing children and adolescents in a healthcare setting. A Certified Child Life Specialist will supervise the student as they participate in individual and group activities with children and families. Students will be required to complete weekly journals, readings, and assignments.

Applications Due

• Fall semester placement – June 4
• Spring semester placement – November 13
• Summer semester placement – March 9

Applicant Requirements

Applicant must:

1. Have completed a minimum of 50 hours working with children (paid or unpaid), with a minimum of 25 hours being with children in a hospital or medical setting
2. Be enrolled in or have completed an Introduction to Child Life college level course or its equivalent
3. Be enrolled in or have completed a child development college level course or its equivalent
4. Have had successful experiences working with children and families, either paid or unpaid
5. Be affiliated or enrolled in an academic program (we are unable to accept unaffiliated or independent students)

Applications will only be accepted electronically. Paper copies will not be accepted.