Looking to gain some applied work experience? Experiential Education or EE courses may be right for you. EE provides you with the opportunity to gain real-world, academically relevant experience in a community, research or professional setting. Combining both academic and applied learning allows you to develop skills and experience further to transfer to your future career paths.

For students in the Faculty of Science, there are a number of department-specific opportunities.

The SCCE offers three routes to gain relevant experience: Applied Placements, Research Practicums, and Undergraduate Internships. Note that the following courses are only for students whose own department does not offer experiential opportunities.

Applied Science Placement Courses

Science 3EP3, 3EX6, Math 3ET3, Physics 3ET3

These courses allow students to explore career options and integrate academics within a community, volunteer or professional experience. Students self-generate the placement opportunity and supervisor, as well as a McMaster academic supervisor. Placements must include a minimum of 60 hours of placement work, and meet a self-directed, pre-approved academic component.  Click here for the Science 3EP3, 3EX6, Physics 3ET3 and Math 3ET3 Application Form-Learning Contract.

Research Practicum

Science 3RP3

Students will conduct research, as directed by a faculty member, in a wide range of scientific lab/field settings. Students self-generate the research practicum opportunity with a McMaster supervisor. Practicums must include a minimum of 60 hours of work, and meet a self-directed, pre-approved academic component. Click here to complete the Science 3RP3 Application Form-Learning Contract. 

Undergraduate Science Internship Course

Science 3IE0

Full-time, paid internship in industry, that provides students with technical work experience related to the academic curriculum. Students self-generate placements, in consultation with the Science Career & Cooperative Education office, with participating companies through an application and interview process. Visit SCCE for details on the approval process. Click here to complete the Science 3IE0 Application Form-Learning Contract

Please fill out the following Workplace Safety and Insurance Board or Private Insurance Coverage for Students on Unpaid Placements:

Student Declaration of Understanding

Letter to Placement Employers

 Please fill out the Pre-Placement Safety Orientation Checklist:

Checklist