Current Students

Experiential Learning: BI Practicum

All BI students are required to complete a practicum placement during the summer term of Year 1.

The BI Practicum is an experiential learning opportunity attained in partnership between students, employers and the Faculty of Information. It’s an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills learned in the classroom in a professional setting. Many students have been able to secure full-time employment in well-known organizations or start-up companies, while others have landed fulfilling work study positions on campus. Students also receive academic credit for this work-integrated learning opportunity.

The BI’s integrative, critical, humanities, and social science based approach to information technologies and practices will prepare students for vital and enriching careers in three areas: Products & Systems, Policy & Research, Information Management & Cultural Stewardship.

Practicum Overview

The practicum is an opportunity to:

  • Develop professional competencies & build the bridge from student to emerging professional
  • Engage with industry professionals and build your community
  • Pursue your individual career goals and interests
  • Prepare for the demands of today’s changing workforce through experiential education

Practicum Details

  • Required for all BI students
  • Completed during the summer term of Year 1
  • A minimum of 100 hours
  • May be paid or unpaid
  • May be project-based or task-based
  • May be held at an established company, a start-up, or a work-study position

Practicum Timeline

Year 1 Fall term

  1. Begin to define your interests, attend networking events
  2. Apply to summer student internship opportunities offered by large organizations
  3. International students connect with CIE for work permit details
  4. Take the practicum preparation course: INF401H1

Year 1 Winter term

  1. Continue with the practicum preparation course: INF401H1
  2. Continue to apply for industry positions; broaden your search
  3. Apply to positions

Year 1 Summer term

  1. Complete your practicum
  2. Take the work-integrated learning practicum course: INF402H1

International Students

International students need to have a valid co-op work permit to work in Canada.

The application process can be quite lengthy, sometimes taking upwards of 4 to 5 months for processing. We strongly recommend beginning the process as soon as possible to avoid any potential delays. Review the links below for additional information about how to begin your application. You should not start a work placement until you have the co-op work permit.

Please also note that the co-op work permit can only be used to complete the work associated with your degree requirements. It is illegal for you to use the co-op work permit longer than needed for your practicum placement, or to use it for jobs that will not satisfy your degree requirements.

If you have any questions, additional support is available via the university’s Centre for International Experience. Please connect with an Immigration Advisor at isa.cie@utoronto.ca. Only licensed immigration advisors are able to answer study/work permit application questions.

Year 1 Fall term: receive the BI Practicum confirmation letter from the Faculty, and start the online application process for the Co-op work permit.

Need help with your practicum?

The Careers team is here to support you on your journey towards becoming an emerging professional. We can help identify and build the necessary skills to succeed in the workplace.

We offer:

  1. one-on-one career advising
  2. resume/cover letter review
  3. mock interviews

Connect with the Careers team by email: careers.ischool@utoronto.ca.