Experience Matters
At UCalgary, hands-on learning opportunities are endless.
The path to where I am today was completely unexpected. There was a period where I felt that I didn’t have a lot going for me. I decided to open myself to new possibilities and say yes to whatever opportunities came my way, even if they were out of my comfort zone. I’m so glad I did.
Saskia Mae-Livingstone
Bachelor of Arts, Law and Society, 2021
Learning beyond the classroom
At UCalgary, learning is not just lectures and essays, it's experiential learning in the classroom and beyond. It's real-world scenarios in work placements, internships, practicums and co-ops. There's experiential learning in the classroom, too, such as labs, creative activities, and classes that let you explore through practical projects and research.
Experiential learning helps you build your resume, explore career options and sets you on a path to success.
Work-integrated learning
Learning on the job is a great way to integrate what you learn in class with real-world situations and gain practical and professional skills. Your program may include an internship, co-op or practicum opportunity, or you can take a class like UNIV 304 to incorporate work-integrated learning into your degree.
Undergraduate research
As a top research institute, undergraduate research is an important part of UCalgary culture. Through exceptional initiatives like the Program for Undergraduate Research (PURE), you can gain funding to conduct your very own research project with an on-campus mentor.
Neurodiverse students
UCalgary wants to support all students as they explore work-integrated learning opportunities. With support from The Sinneave Family Foundation, we are ensuring neurodiverse students thrive in practicums, internships, co-ops and beyond.
Experiential learning across campus
Enhancing experiential learning access
Lisa Stowe, academic lead for experiential learning, explains two UCalgary initiatives for inclusive student engagement
170 UCalgary nursing students get Connect Care training over four days in pilot project
UCalgary Nursing’s partnership with Faculty of Arts and Alberta Health Services streamlines delivery of electronic health records system training for students
TECTERRA honoured for contributions toward student support and experiential learning at Schulich School of Engineering
Students say opportunities provided by partnership have been pivotal to success
One summer student’s exploration of social media virality
Evangeline Dorval’s PURE project investigates the role of moral emotions in social media
Grad student skills internship program provides resources needed to excel
Asma Bernier says Transformative Talent Internships has given her a head start on her career journey
'Mistakes are inevitable, but not irreparable': One educator on using simulation and role play in the classroom
2023 Experiential Learning Initiatives Teaching Award-winner Angelique Jenney helps students be comfortable with discomfort through experiential learning