PsychologyJuly 4, 2026

practicum

/ˈpræktɪkəm/

Definition

A practical training course or period of supervised work that allows students to apply academic knowledge in a real-world professional setting.

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin 'practicum,' the neuter form of 'practicus,' meaning 'practical.' It entered English as a noun to describe a course of study involving practical work rather than just theory.

In the news

In this article, the term refers to the required 600 hours of in-person, hands-on clinical experience that students must complete to transition from classroom learning to professional practice. It emphasizes the necessity of applying therapeutic skills with actual clients under licensed supervision.

New online master’s degree in clinical psychology to expand access to mental health care

Read the full article ↗

ASU News

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