Field Experience Opportunities
Get Real-World Experience with Fieldwork in Psychology
Take your learning beyond the classroom and into the real world with PSY 491: Field Experience. This course gives you the chance to build professional skills, grow your network, and gain hands-on experience in a setting that matches your career goals.
What is field experience?
Field Experience is a great way to build your resume, learn new skills, meet professionals, and explore a future career.
The goal is to find an internship that is related to psychology that matches your interests, goals, and psychology classes. Because psychology covers many topics like development, counseling, health, law, business, data/analytics, and research, there are many different types of internships to choose from.
In the early stages of getting started in PSY 491, you need to set goals and reach out to advisors, professors, and the field experience coordinator to discuss your future plans. This collaboration will help us identify organizations that can provide the most valuable field experience for your career path.
By completing field experience during your undergraduate studies at UNC, you’ll:
- Work in a real-world, professional environment
- Build strong connections with professionals in the field
- Strengthen your resume and graduate school or job applications
- Earn strong letters of recommendation
What is PSY 491? Who should take it and when should it be taken?
PSY 491 is the required internship class for psychology majors only. You can take it for 1 to 3 credits, but you must take at least 3 credits to meet the major requirement.
To sign up for PSY 491, you must:
- Be a Junior or Senior (have at least 60 college credits)
- Have already taken PSY 120
To complete PSY 491, you’ll need to:
- Find and complete an internship-like experience in a professional setting
- Complete 135 total hours of supervised fieldwork
- Submit monthly documents that include a short update and a record of your completed hours
- At the end of the semester, your on-site supervisor will sign a form confirming your hours and professionalism
Field Experience Opportunities
Here is a list of opportunities you can explore to complete your field experience requirement.
Contact: Megan Outlaw, LCSW, LAC
Title: Treatment Operations Director
Phone Number: 970-316-3872
A Treatment Center (ATC) provides many kinds of care for people in the criminal justice system who struggle with substance use. We also help run community corrections programs across the state. Our services cover all ASAM levels, from early help to intensive residential treatment.
This gives internship students the chance to learn about many ways to treat substance use, mental health challenges, and criminal behavior. Students can gain experience in different settings, such as inpatient, outpatient, and residential programs.
ATC follows rules from both the BHA and the DCJ. Our focus on criminal behavior is supported by the DCJ’s IRT program and by Community Corrections standards, which include intensive case management services.
Contact: Liv Brodin (Outreach Coordinator)
Email: LivBrodin@MomentumCAC.com
Address: 2120 Milestone Drive Suite 103, Ft Collins CO
Momentum Counseling and Consulting is a private therapy practice that helps people create real and lasting change in their lives and communities. We have offices in Arizona, Colorado, and South Dakota, and we also offer online therapy that can be accessed from anywhere in the world.
MCC provides high-quality care for individuals, couples, families, and groups. Our services are easy to access, welcoming to everyone, and based on proven methods. Our skilled therapists use different types of therapy like:
- CBT
- DBT
- EMDR
- IFS
We support clients with many concerns, including trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationship struggles, and life changes.
We also believe in supporting our team. At MCC, therapists work in a positive and collaborative environment where they can grow both personally and professionally. Whether you are an experienced therapist or just starting as an intern, we provide strong training, guidance, and a client-focused approach that helps both staff and clients succeed. Together, let’s build momentum for healing, growth, and balance.
Contact: Hannah Balick (Volunteer Coordinator)
Phone number: 970-506-9550 (ext: 6330)
Email: weldvolunteer@nocohumane.org
Address: 620 42nd St. Evans CO
NOCO Humane is an independent nonprofit animal shelter. The shelter works to further the compassionate, safe and responsible relationship between animals and people. We provide care to animals in need, and serve as a valuable resource for the people in our community. Our volunteers are critical to the success of our mission. By giving the animals much-needed social time, keeping kennels clean and animals fed, taking photos for the animals’ web profiles and assisting our clients with their many needs, volunteers provide and incredible amount of support to staff.
Pet ownership is a complex thing, and the relationship between a shelter and the community it serves is complex too. Despite much of our work being with animals, there is a lot that involves people. We see many struggles and successes, and much of our work is an effort to turn the first into the second. Volunteers will learn a lot about animal welfare and the impact that our services have on the community in their time with us.
ChildSafe Colorado helps people of all ages who have experienced childhood abuse. We offer many kinds of therapy, like play therapy, art therapy, sand tray, EMDR, Neurofeedback, and both individual and group sessions. As an intern, you will help with office tasks, work at the front desk, and care for children when needed.
Family Support Center-Specialized Autism Services
If you work with us, we’ll train you to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Training includes a free 40-hour online course, 3–4 weeks of hands-on instruction, and an RBT exam. Once certified, you’ll work one-on-one with kids ages 2–18, helping them learn and grow through play and daily routines. You’ll be supervised by licensed professionals (like a BCBA or BCaBA).
We also support RBTs who want to earn graduate degrees and become clinical supervisors. Our goal is to help kids feel happy, calm, and engaged—because that’s when the best learning happens!
Colorado Judicial Branch (Courts and Probation) Website
As a Volunteer/Deputy Probation Officer (DPO), you will learn many parts of the probation officer’s job—except for home visits.
During your internship, you will help write legal documents like :
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warrants
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summons
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terminations
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extensions
You will also have chances to shadow full-time probation officers. This may include visiting the jail, sitting in on court hearings, and learning about different types of probation cases. This helps you understand the people and situations that probation officers work with.
DPOs are given a small group of low-risk clients to supervise. You may meet with them face-to-face, check if they are following court rules, and connect them with helpful resources.
You’ll also get extra training, coaching, and help with your resume and interview skills. This internship gives you real-world experience and support as you prepare for a future career.
Alternative Homes for Youth (AHFY)
At Alternative Homes for Youth, our mission is to support and guide youth and families by teaching healthy life skills and providing therapeutic and educational services that help end cycles of violence. As a non-profit residential treatment facility, we specialize in helping adolescent males ages 15–20 who have experienced trauma, neglect, and abuse. Our programs focus on healing, personal growth, and long-term change.
We use evidence-based treatment plans tailored to each individual, combining research-driven strategies with a compassionate, multi-modal approach. Our goal is to respond to the unique needs of both our clients and the broader community.
Internship Overview
AHFY offers a meaningful internship experience for undergraduate students interested in mental health, residential treatment, and youth services. Interns will have the opportunity to observe our 2nd Shift/Milieu shift groups, gaining firsthand insight into:
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Client routines and behavior
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Responses to expectations and authority
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Safety procedures within the program
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Trauma-informed care and de-escalation strategies
Interns will shadow Behavioral Health Specialists our trained direct care staff to learn different approaches to building trust, motivating change, and creating positive, healthy relationships with youth.
While interns are encouraged to build supportive relationships, their role is primarily observational. They may assist only when directed by trained staff. Any new ideas or contributions must be discussed and approved by the supervisor.
Training and Development
All accepted interns will be offered the same internal training opportunities as AHFY staff. Attendance at team meetings and collaboration sessions is encouraged to help deepen their understanding of residential treatment programs and the youth we serve.
Centennial BOCES helps students with disabilities in small towns near Greeley.
Our team includes:
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School psychologists who look at how students learn and think.
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School social workers who help families get support and work with students who have social or emotional needs.
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Special education teachers who work with students who have autism or trouble with behavior.
As an intern, you can choose the area you are most interested in. You will work with a staff member and help support students in local schools.
Weld County Area Agency of Aging Website
Join the Weld County Area Agency on Aging and get real-world experience helping older adults and their caregivers.
As an intern, you will take part in many programs that help people in the community. These include:
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Aging and Disability Resources of Colorado
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Help paying for dental, vision, and hearing services
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Breaks for caregivers (respite care)
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In-home help and chores for older adults
One of the main parts of your internship will be helping with the Friendly Fork Meal Program. This program offers healthy meals at 22 locations across the county. People can enjoy a good meal with others and also get nutrition tips and advice from a dietitian.
You can also take part in the Weld Aging Well Program, which gives workshops and classes to help older adults stay healthy and independent.
You will work with both public and private partners to support, plan, and improve services for older adults in Weld County.
This is a great chance to learn new skills, help others, and make a real difference in your community.
North Range Behavioral Health Website
At North Range Behavioral Health, we believe that hope leads to healing. We help people who are facing mental health and addiction challenges with care and support. We’re here to help you grow both personally and professionally in a team that works together.
What You’ll Do as a Bachelor-Level Intern:
You will work in an outpatient clinic, helping people during their recovery. You may do things like:
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Learn by doing: Get real experience helping with assessments, crisis care, and therapy (individual, family, and group sessions).
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Service Planning: Help make and track care plans, take notes, and keep electronic records.
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Work with a team: Join a group of professionals, including doctors, to give full support to clients.
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Coordinate care: Learn how to connect clients with helpful services inside and outside our center.
Why Intern With Us?
At North Range, we give you real-world experience and help you grow your skills. You’ll get:
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Training and Support: Learn the newest tools and get helpful feedback from supervisors.
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A Caring Team: Be part of a team that supports you and values your work.
What We Believe:
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Clients Come First: We focus on helping people recover every day.
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Kindness Matters: We treat everyone with care, respect, and understanding.
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Teamwork: We work together to give clients the best support possible.
Contact: Jessica Miller
Title: Director of Programs and Services
Phone: 970-352-8682
Connections Website
Email: info@connectionscolorado.org
Psychology Internships in Disability Services
Connections for Independent Living offers internships for psychology students who want to learn more about helping others. This program is great for students interested in human services, advocacy, and disability justice.
Connections is a Center for Independent Living (CIL). We provide five main services:
- Advocacy
- Peer Support
- Independent Living Skills Training
- Information & Referral
- Transition Services
As an intern, you’ll work with people with disabilities and learn how these services help them live more independently. You’ll gain useful skills that can help you in many different careers.
This internship also helps you grow as a person. Many students feel more confident and independent after completing the program. You’ll also meet mentors, make new friends, and become part of the local disability community.
Our internship supports young people as they move from high school to college or work. It also gives extra support to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
By partnering with Connections, schools and colleges can give students a supportive, inclusive experience that helps them grow both professionally and personally. This is a great chance to take part in the Independent Living Movement and make a difference in your community.
Title: Director
Contact: James Hodges
Email: james.hodges@unco.edu
The MGCC offers a one-on-one field experience that is made just for each student. Students work with the MGCC Director to create a plan that fits their interests. This plan includes using ideas from psychology during their time at the center.
Some topics students may explore include power, the experiences of minority groups, leadership, ethics, social identity, and multiculturalism.
Students also build real-world skills based on the NACE Career Readiness Competencies, such as:
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Communication
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Critical thinking and problem solving
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Equity and inclusion
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Teamwork and collaboration
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Strong work ethic
This experience helps students grow both personally and professionally.
Contact Information
Primary Contact: Freddie Horn – freddie.horn@unco.edu
Director, Center for Student Wellbeing: Taylor Schiestel – taylor.schiestel@unco.edu
Phone: 970-351-4230
Bear Pantry Website
Volunteer at the Bear Pantry – Help Fight Food Insecurity at UNC
The Bear Pantry is the University of Northern Colorado’s on-campus food pantry, serving students, staff, and faculty who are experiencing food insecurity.
Volunteering at the Bear Pantry is more than just earning service hours—it’s a hands-on, meaningful way to support your campus community. You’ll have the chance to connect directly with guests, learn about important campus resources, and help make a real difference in people’s lives.
As a Bear Pantry volunteer, you’ll gain valuable soft skills like:
- Customer service
- Communication and teamwork
- Task management and organization
- An understanding of food insecurity and nonprofit work
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and truly value the unique experiences and perspectives you bring. Your time and effort help us create a welcoming, supportive space for everyone who visits the pantry.
Join us in building a stronger, more caring campus community. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Bear Pantry!
Contact Information
Name: Sonya Garcia
Title: Supervising Investigator
Phone: (970) 353-8224 (ext. 1476)
Email: sonya.garcia@coloradodefenders.us
Intern with the Colorado State Public Defender’s Office
An internship with the Public Defender’s Office offers valuable, real-world experience for students interested in criminal defense, law, or public service.
As an intern, you will get hands-on exposure to the criminal justice system. Interns support attorneys by helping with important tasks like:
- Serving subpoenas
- Requesting records
- Conducting interviews
- Writing case reports
This experience helps build practical legal skills that go beyond what you learn in the classroom.
Interns also gain a better understanding of the role public defenders play in protecting the rights of people who cannot afford an attorney. You’ll learn about the challenges of working with clients who face economic hardship and see the justice system up close.
This opportunity is great for students thinking about a career in indigent defense or public interest law. It can strengthen your commitment to justice and make a lasting impact on your future career.
PSY 491 FAQs
PSY 491: Psychology Field Experience
PSY 491 gives students a chance to learn by doing. This course lets you observe and apply psychology in a real-world work setting.
Course Goals
In this class, you will:
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Learn and practice skills related to your internship site
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Work with professionals in the field
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Get familiar with terms, tools, and ideas used in that area of psychology
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Connect your hands-on experience to what you’ve learned in your psychology courses
Since students are placed in different types of internships, PSY 491 supports many of the psychology program’s learning goals.
What You’ll Learn
Knowledge Goals:
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Understand major theories in psychology
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Learn how people and situations interact to shape behavior and experience
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Understand how the brain and body affect behavior
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Know what causes helpful and harmful behaviors
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See behavior from multicultural perspectives
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Understand how psychology is based on science
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Learn about different research methods and tools
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Understand statistics used in psychology
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Know the ethical rules in psychology
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Explore how psychology can be used in real life
Skill Goals:
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Use psychology terms correctly
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Search for information using libraries and online tools
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Read and think critically about psychology research
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Understand and compare psychology theories
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Plan, run, and write about your own research study
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Work with and understand data
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Write using APA style, the standard format in psychology
PSY 491 is offered fall, spring, and summer. In the past, students have engaged in field experience out of town, out of state, and even out of the country.
Forty-five hours of work at the placement site are required for each credit, 135 total hours for a typical 3-credit field experience. While there are no class meetings or exams, the Field Experience Coordinator generally requires periodic progress reports and a final paper.
Grading for PSY 491:
Students in PSY 491 receive Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (S/U) grades. Their performance is evaluated by the site supervisor at their placement. The supervisor must submit a performance evaluation form to the Field Experience Coordinator and verify that the student has completed the required work hours.
A grade of Unsatisfactory (U) may be given if any of the following occur:
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The site supervisor fails to submit the performance evaluation or verify the hours worked.
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Any required reports or papers are incomplete or poorly written.
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The site supervisor provides an unsatisfactory evaluation of the student’s performance.
How to Register for PSY 491:
The process to register for PSY 491 can take a few days or even up to two weeks. Start by meeting with the Field Experience Coordinator (listed as the PSY 491 instructor on Ursa) the semester before you want to register. The Field Experience Coordinator will give you permission to register.
Steps to Follow:
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Meet with the Coordinator: Discuss your interests in psychology and career goals. You will also get an agreement form.
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Placement Suggestions: The Coordinator will suggest possible placements or review any placements you have in mind.
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Contact Placement Sites: You are responsible for contacting potential sites and scheduling meetings with possible supervisors.
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Submit Agreement Form: Once you’ve found a placement, have the site supervisor sign the agreement form and return it to the Coordinator.
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Get Permission to Register: After the agreement form is approved, the Coordinator will allow you to register for the course.
Have questions? Contact us!
Carl Granrud
Director, Interim Chair, and Professor