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4. [Experiential Learning](/index%2Ephp/student-services/centre-emerging-artists-and-designers/experiential-learning)
5. [Placement Courses](/index%2Ephp/markdownify/node/2411)
# Placement Courses
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- [Placement Courses](/index%2Ephp/student-services/centre-emerging-artists-and-designers/experiential-learning/placement-courses)
- [Tools & Resources](/index%2Ephp/student-services/centre-emerging-artists-and-designers/tools-and-resources)
- [Work/Place Program](/index%2Ephp/student-services/centre-emerging-artists-and-designers/experiential-learning/work-place-program)
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### Creative work comes in many different shapes, which is why OCAD U’s Experiential Learning Program is not one-size-fits all.
### Instead of traditional co-ops and internships, Experiential Learning Placements emphasize self-reflection, mentorship, and experimentation.
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Through Placement Courses, upper year undergraduate students can ‘test-drive’ a creative field, and earn academic credit by learning through working in the field. Students reflect and share individual experiences as a class through group discussion, and complete course work based on critical self-reflection and professional development.
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### Process
Students enroll in Experiential Placement Courses just like any other course – please see the [Course Catalogue](https://coursecatalogue.ocadu.ca/Pages/CatalogHome.aspx) for eligibility specific to your program (Major/Minor/Specialization).
Once enrolled, students are responsible for preparing their portfolio and résumé and creating a [Talent Network](https://ocadu-csm.symplicity.com/) profile. Students should contact the [Experiential Learning Coordinator](mailto:explearning@ocadu.ca) for advising on Placement Employer research and outreach. The Experiential Learning Program team maintains a network of Placement Partners and we provide support and resources to help students make professional connections.
To get the most out of an Experiential Learning Placement, students are encouraged to:
- Self-assess and reflect on creative skills and practice
- Set personal and professional goals
- Take initiative to explore your field and/or industry
- Connect with professional communities and develop personal networks
- Experiment
- Share personal experiences and resources with your peers
[More details for students/faculty here](https://ocaduniversity.sharepoint.com/sites/CEADCommSite/SitePages/Placement-Courses.aspx)
## Frequently asked questions
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### About Experiential Learning Placements
### How is an Experiential Learning Placement different from an internship or co-op?
Experiential Learning Placements prioritize personal and professional growth through mentorship. They are opportunities through which students can ‘test drive’ a specific professional context and are supported and evaluated by OCAD U faculty for credit, whereas co-op and internship are work-oriented paid positions, with minimal academic support.
OCAD U does not have a co-op program; students seeking paid internships (not for credit) should get in touch with the CEAD's Career Development team.
### Are Placement Courses the same as Field Placement?
Almost! Students doing Field Placements work independently, and students enrolled in Placement Courses meet in a group setting with in-class activities and assignments. Students interested in doing a Field Placement are expected to self-initiate their own placement.
### Advising
### Do I need to be enrolled in a Placement Course to receive career-related advice?
All OCAD U students and alumni can contact a member of the CEAD for advising - we can discuss a range of professional development questions related to your job search, preparing applications, portfolio and résumé review, graduate studies, and interviews. Please get in touch to make an appointment: [explearning@ocadu.ca.](mailto:explearning@ocadu.ca)
Weekly professional development advising sessions are offered via appointment. Learn more on our advising page.
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### Contact us
Experiential Learning Placements