Practicum Types

The practicum (HE 685) is an essential part of the Higher Education degree program. It is a supervised on-the-job experience in an approved college or university setting or public agency involved with higher education.

Such experience can include:

  • Gaining experience in a particular higher education unit
  • Assisting with or attending higher education study abroad tours
  • Participating in academic community outreach; or
  • Participating in field work such as grant-funded research data collection

Teaching Practicum

Students are expected to co-teach at least one three-credit or four-credit course in their discipline under the direction of a mentor from the faculty of the internship site.

At a minimum, students need to help design a syllabus, teach the course, and utilize classroom research techniques to evaluate teaching effectiveness.

Administrative Practicum

Students work in an organization in higher administration. 

Examples of placements:

  • American Association of Community Colleges Research Office
  • The Office of the Virginia Secretary of Education
  • Virginia Community College System/Richmond
  • New Century College, George Mason University
  • Career Development Services Office, George Mason University
  • Foundation Office, George Mason University
  • BIS Office, George Mason University
  • NOVA/Manassas Community orchestra, NVCC
  • Provost's Office, Annandale Campus, NVCC
  • Dean's Office, Manassas Campus, NVCC
  • Center for Teaching Excellence, George Mason University
  • Higher Education Study Abroad tours 
  • Student Success Coaching, George Mason University

Community-Based Practicums

Students work in an organization that works to advance education, but not directly in an institution that offers degrees.

  • Professional association
  • Non-profit concerned with education policy
  • Service Learning