Information for students
A student placement might sometimes be referred to as a "fieldwork placement", "practical placement", "work integrated learning", "clinical placement", "clinical practicum" or "clinical practice". It is the component in some courses or subjects that is conducted in a non-classroom environment that assists you in putting your theoretical knowledge into practice, usually involving interaction with actual patients or clients.
Placements during the COVID-19 pandemic
The University continues to deliver quality education and health training to students amidst the unique challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure we have a skilled health workforce of the future. As you return to placement it is important to understand that the experience will be different to what you may have experienced before. Restrictions continue to apply to some activities and across all health disciplines new techniques of delivering health care have been introduced or expanded (for example, tele or video-health).
Be assured that placements will only be facilitated where there are adequate protections for your safety and where a quality, comprehensive learning experience can be achieved.
When attending placement, you must stay up to date on the current advice from the Department of Health and Human Services, in particular the Infection Control Guidelines. You may also be required to participate in periodic screening and/or agree to additional terms and conditions related to the pandemic. We strongly recommend students download the COVIDSafe app or keep a diary to assist with contact tracing.
If you or someone around you is anxious about coronavirus, you may find these COVID-19 support resources useful.
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Important information
There are some important things you need to know before you undertake a student placement.
Read this section thoroughly to ensure you're fully prepared and don't get caught out. -
Pre-placement requirements
Before being allowed to commence a student placement, all students must satisfy certain pre-placement requirements.
Compliance with these requirements is monitored by placement coordinators through Sonia and reviewed by placement host organisations prior to commencement. -
Going rural
Rural placements provide a valuable opportunity to explore the intricacies of regional and remote health care provision and offer diverse, 'next level' experiences.
There is a suite of support services available for students participating in rural placements, including financial assistance, accommodation and educational opportunities. -
Getting help
From time to time, things can happen on placement that aren't great.
Find out about what to do in different situations, and what support services are available to help you out.
In an emergency, always dial 000.
Sonia
Sonia is the Faculty's comprehensive placement administration tool. As every placement experience is unique, Sonia is used differently for each cohort and discipline. Check with your placement coordinator for information about how Sonia is used for you.
Note: When accessing Sonia you need to select the relevant school or department, and then click the 'University Sign In' button to use your standard University of Melbourne credentials.