Fieldwork FAQs

WHAT IS A FIELD SITE?

A field site is a setting, with an on-site supervisor, such as a school, hospital, clinic, or a community agency.  A field site can also include the constellation of experiences working on faculty member's research team.

HOW DO I FIND A FIELD SITE?

During Fieldwork I, with the assistance of the Fieldwork Coordinator, you will have the opportunity to select a field site(s) from the Fieldwork Handbook and submit an application that includes your top four preferences for field site placements. The Fieldwork Coordinator will review your application and inform you (either in person or via email) of which approved sites to contact.

WHAT DO I ACTUALLY DO IN A FIELD SITE?

The specific tasks and activities vary greatly based on the field site.  However, in all sites, you will have a supervised hands-on experienced working in the site of your choice.

HOW MANY HOURS A WEEK ARE WE REQUIRED TO SPEND AT OUR FIELDSITE?

You are expected to spend eight to ten hours per week at your field site. Please note, however, that some field sites require that students commit up to 12 hours a week.

IS IT POSSIBLE FOR A STUDENT TO HAVE MORE THAN ONE FIELDSITE?

Yes, students may opt to have more than one field site. For example, some students choose to volunteer at a community agency, as well as on a research team. Typically, students who have more than one site must spend between ten to twelve hours (cumulatively) at their field sites.

AM I REQUIRED TO CONTINUE IN THE SAME FIELD SITE PLACEMNT FOR BOTH FIELDWORK II AND FIELDWORK III?

No, students are able to tailor each semester to desired learning experiences. Please note, however, that certain sites require a 6 month to 1 year commitment. 

IF I PLAN TO GO ABROAD FOR A SEMESTER, AND WILL NOT BE TAKING FIELDWORK I AND II DURING CONSECUTIVE SEMESTERS, WHEN DO I APPLY FOR A FIELDSITE?

Even if you will not be enrolled in Fieldwork II during the semester directly after you take Fieldwork I, you must submit an application while in enrolled in Fieldwork I. On your application, indicate that you will be going abroad. The Fieldwork Coordinator will then let you know whether you should contact potential field sites before you go abroad, or whether you should wait until your return, as this will depend on the particular sites.