Practicum in Psychology (Psychology 420)

Practicum experiences are offered each Fall and Spring semester to a small number of students. A Practicum in Psychology allows you to apply your knowledge to actual situations in the field in order to,

• Gain valuable experience.
• Explore different career paths.
• Cultivate a professional network.
• Optimize your resume and graduate school applications.  

During a practicum, students will spend a total of 85 hours across the semester (about 6 hours per week) which includes field-based learning at an agency, business, or other professional organization, as well as a weekly seminar. 

Faculty will work with each student to identify placement options based on your career goals and interests. Placements include organizations like therapy clinics, psychiatric hospitals, advocacy and prevention agencies, small businesses, human resources offices, marketing companies, recruitment agencies, university student support centers, school counseling centers, community mental health agencies, substance use treatment centers, non-profits, and more.   

A limited number of practicum opportunities are available each semester. Applications are due the semester before the practicum. In reviewing applications, department faculty will consider previous performance indicators that suggest a student may struggle with the professional and ethical conduct expected of practicum students, such as cooperation with rules and policies, effective communication, willingness to learn, appropriate responsibility and accountability, and commitment to treating others with dignity and respect.  

How to Apply:

1. Check in with your advisor to ask any questions about whether a practicum will fit into your degree plan.  
2. Go to this link and complete the brief application:  https://forms.gle/GR94RwEDQPhb18tz8

Contact Dr. Kayla Waters, Ph.D. with questions.
Kwaters1@misssouriwestern.edu
816.271.4388

The following is a list of some of the practicum sites students have had in the past. The department cannot guarantee placement availability and students are not limited to just the sites listed: