CCS Field Work Policy

Practicum and Internship Protocols

The Career and Community Studies (CCS) Program is committed to preparing students for meaningful, real-world employment experiences through structured on-campus practicums and off-campus internships completed for CCS credit, as outlined in the program planner. Participation in these experiences is a privilege that reflects a student’s academic progress, professional readiness, and overall development within the program.

To ensure success in these settings, students must meet established eligibility criteria related to academic performance, program engagement, professional conduct, and demonstrated growth in independence. The following requirements outline the standards students must meet to be considered for, and to continue in, practicum and internship placements.

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Eligibility Requirements

In order to participate in on-campus practicums and off-campus internships, students must meet all components of the program’s eligibility requirements as outlined below:

Academic Standing

Students must maintain a satisfactory GPA in accordance with the CCS Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.

Program Engagement

Students must demonstrate successful participation in career exploration activities and fulfill all requirements of the Sophomore and Junior Seminars.

Required Submissions & Coursework

Students must complete and submit the Work Interest Inventory in a timely manner, as determined by program deadlines.

Students must also demonstrate satisfactory completion of related seminar coursework that reflects active participation and the ability to apply course concepts in real workplace or real-life scenarios. Performance in both class and internship settings should demonstrate relevant understanding, practical application of skills, and readiness to engage in professional tasks.

Professional Conduct, Communication, & Feedback

Students are expected to uphold professional standards throughout their practicum and internship experiences. This includes:

• Accepting and applying feedback from employers and mentors
• Maintaining respectful, appropriate, and collaborative interactions with supervisors, mentors, coworkers, and peers
• Demonstrating professional communication, including proper use of email, timely responses, and appropriate communication by text or phone when required
• Showing genuine interest and engagement in the workplace, including asking questions, participating actively, and demonstrating curiosity about the field
• Building positive working relationships with mentors and colleagues, demonstrating respect, reliability, and a willingness to learn

Independence and Workplace Readiness

By the spring semester of junior year, students should demonstrate increasing independence and confidence in managing workplace responsibilities. This includes:

• Taking initiative and completing tasks with decreasing reliance on mentor oversight
• Exercising sound judgment in communication, time management, and professional behavior

Prior Performance

Students must receive a satisfactory manager/supervisor evaluation from any previous practicum experience (if applicable).

Student Standing

Students must remain in good standing in the following areas:

• Student Conduct
• Student Financial Services (no outstanding financial holds)
• Residential Life (if applicable)
• CCS Student Expectations Policy

Progression to Off-Campus Internship (Senior Year)

Students must demonstrate increased independence and growth from sophomore through senior year across academic, vocational, and campus life domains. Eligibility for off-campus internships will be determined based on readiness, as assessed by CCS staff, including the student’s ability to function with greater autonomy and responsibility in less structured environments.

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Student and Family Responsibilities