To help students explore and define career options, to enhance undergraduate classroom learning, and to create strong resumes for eventual job and graduate school applications, the Division of Family Studies and Human Development encourages students to gain out-of-class experience in community workplaces (practicums or internships) and/or on faculty research projects (independent study). Students earn course credit for their efforts. The options offered are:
COMMUNITY-BASED PRACTICUMS - Students who have earned a minimum of 58 units and satisfy GPA requirements are eligible to participate in a supervised, community-based practicum. The practicum provides students with training and hands-on work experience in an approved community agency (e.g., mental health facility, social service agency, educational settings). To earn academic credit (FSHD 394 or 494), students are required to complete 45 hours for every one (1) unit of credit (3 units x 45 hours=135 hours), submit written reports of their practicum experiences, and obtain a satisfactory evaluation from their site supervisor. General information, application packets, and a listing of approved practicum sites are available in Room 205, FCS Building.
SERVICE LEARNING INTERNSHIPS - To be eligible to participate in the internship program, the student must be a Family Studies and Human Development major or minor, have completed at least 58 units, and carry a minimum 3.0 GPA. The internship provides students with training, close mentorship, and hands-on work experience in an approved agency matched to best meet the student's needs. In addition, the student participates in a professional development seminar during the first semester of their internship. Students can earn up to seven internship credits completed across two semesters, or one intensive summer session. To earn academic credit (FSHD 393 or 493), students are required to work a minimum of 9-10 hours per week during each semester; participate in and complete assignments for the professional development seminar; and complete evaluation forms and all work assigned by the internship coordinator and community mentor. For more details, enrollment options, and application information, see Service Learning.
FACULTY-SUPERVISED RESEARCH EXPERIENCE - Students, especially those who are considering graduate or professional school, should consider becoming a research project assistant. FSHD faculty are involved in research studies that address important and timely social issues such as adolescent risk-taking behavior, domestic violence, post-divorce family dynamics, parenting in poor families, midlife stress, and women's health and well-being. Undergraduate assistants receive training from faculty and graduate research assistants and have an opportunity to become involved in a variety of research activities, such as data collection (e.g., interviewing, survey administration, observation), library research, and data coding and entry. Students earn academic credit under FSHD 399 or 499. For further information, contact faculty members directly.
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