Community-Engaged Experiential Learning
Biology 3EP3 – Applied Biology Placement
Course Coordinator: Dr. Patricia Chow-Fraser & Dr. Emily Choy / Course Administrator: Tyler Charlebois
An Applied Biology Placement provides students with the opportunity to apply their biological training towards an on-campus or off-campus partnership within the broader community. This 3-unit placement course enables students to make connections, gain professional experience and explore career options through the shadowing of experts in the field. Previous students have explored opportunities with healthcare professionals such as physicians, dentists, optometrists, physiotherapists; government and industry partners; educators; non-profit community organizations and beyond!
In addition to the placement-related work that is completed with the placement supervisor, students must also complete an academic work component under the supervision of a Biology faculty member. Normally students will complete 60 hours of placement work, which may be carried out over one or two terms.
Expandable List
Step 1: Seek the support of two supervisors: an academic (Biology faculty) supervisor and a placement supervisor
Step 2: Submit these 3 completed forms to biology@mcmaster.ca:
- Biology 3EP3 Permission Form which includes:
- Permission and signature of a placement supervisor
- A completed Course Evaluation Rubric with a summary of job responsibilities and learning objectives
- Permission and signature of an academic supervisor
- A final course agreement that is signed by both supervisors and the student
- Student Declaration of Understanding (separate document)
- Letter to Placement Employers (separate document)
For Fall, Term 1: First week of July
For Winter, Term 2: Third week of November
For Spring/Summer: Mid-March