Field Period®

Keuka College’s Field Period provides students with the opportunity to connect academic learning with hands-on experiences. By integrating and synthesizing theoretical and applied learning, Field Period creates a rich, real-world environment for student growth and learning. Through Field Period experiences, students test academic principles, explore and advance career interests, engage with diverse environments and cultures, develop leadership skills, increase awareness of social responsibilities, deepen cultural understanding, and grow personally. Field Period helps students become active, self-directed, and lifelong learners.

Field Period experiences consist of a minimum of 140-hours, including the development and final project for students in on-campus programs. These experiences are typically scheduled during the January term and/or summer term, though opportunities are also available during the fall and spring semesters. Field Period may be paid or unpaid. The Field Period Office works closely with students on planning, preparation, and evaluation; however students are ultimately responsible for the success of their Field Period experience.

First-year students receive guidance in developing and implementing their initial Field Period experience. A Field Period Professional Advisor is assigned to all first-year students.

Through Field Period, students may engage in individual or group placements, career exploration or development, service learning, cross-cultural exploration, spiritual exploration, leadership, and personal growth. Field Period experiences take place in a wide range of settings, including small and large organizations, rural and metropolitan areas, across the United States and around the world. Field Period expands access to diverse opportunities and broadens the college experience for Keuka College students.

The Keuka College Field Period Policy, located in the Academic Policies section of the College Record, outlines the requirements for all students. Students enrolled in online or in-country programs fulfill the college’s requirement for experiential learning through alternative approved experiences.