Two students on a mountain studying rocks.

Experience Matters

At UCalgary, hands-on learning opportunities are endless.

The path to where I am today was completely unexpected. There was a period where I felt that I didn’t have a lot going for me. I decided to open myself to new possibilities and say yes to whatever opportunities came my way, even if they were out of my comfort zone. I’m so glad I did.

A young woman on a hiking path on a mountain.

Saskia Mae-Livingstone

Bachelor of Arts, Law and Society, 2021

A group of young students doing research outside.

Learning beyond the classroom

At UCalgary, learning is not just lectures and essays, it's experiential learning in the classroom and beyond. It's real-world scenarios in work placements, internships, practicums and co-ops. There's experiential learning in the classroom, too, such as labs, creative activities, and classes that let you explore through practical projects and research.

Experiential learning helps you build your resume, explore career options and sets you on a path to success.


A young man sitting at a desk with a computer with creative papers and writing around him.

Work-integrated learning

Learning on the job is a great way to integrate what you learn in class with real-world situations and gain practical and professional skills. Your program may include an internship, co-op or practicum opportunity, or you can take a class like UNIV 304 to incorporate work-integrated learning into your degree.

A young student in a lab holds a dropper over a beaker.

Undergraduate research

As a top research institute, undergraduate research is an important part of UCalgary culture. Through exceptional initiatives like the Program for Undergraduate Research (PURE), you can gain funding to conduct your very own research project with an on-campus mentor.

A group of diverse young people sit close together and smile.

Neurodiverse students

UCalgary wants to support all students as they explore work-integrated learning opportunities. With support from The Sinneave Family Foundation, we are ensuring neurodiverse students thrive in practicums, internships, co-ops and beyond.


Experiential learning across campus

Digital Innovation Challenge powers student connections at UCalgary

Students across Canada compete to solve real-world challenges and build valuable connections

Equitable and alternative assessment is possible across disciplines

Dr. Eliana El Khoury is a keynote speaker at the UCalgary Conference on Postsecondary Learning and Teaching

Explore how land can be our teacher

One-day event for academics and students April 11 to examine how place-based learning can enhance educational practices

UCalgary Law program boosts students’ real-world counsel experience

Corporate Counsel Externship exposes learners to providing in-house legal advice inside companies

'My purpose is to support marginalized communities. Realizing this changed so much'

UCalgary alum reflects on how she developed a fulfilling career by embracing her ADHD

UCalgary prepares students with skills to thrive across all aspects of life

Future Skills learning modules uncover the hidden curriculum that drives success across school, work, and personal lives