How do I choose competencies for my practicum?

Choosing competencies feels high-stakes because it shapes your whole practicum. The most common mistake is picking from the list first and hoping the work will follow. Work in the other direction.

Start with your site's realities

Before you look at the competency list, write down the projects and tasks your site can realistically offer: data analysis, program evaluation, a communication campaign, policy research, community engagement. Then find the competencies those activities naturally address. A competency your site cannot support will be very hard to document later, no matter how interesting it looks on paper.

Then layer in your goals

Among the competencies that fit your site, favor ones that connect to the job you want next. A balanced set usually includes:

• One or two strengths, where you can confidently produce solid evidence
• One or two stretch competencies, where you will genuinely grow

Faculty reviewers value evidence of learning, not only polished performance.

Consult the right people

• Your preceptor knows what the site can deliver and can flag unrealistic choices.
• Your faculty advisor knows the evaluation criteria and common pitfalls.
• Former students at your site or similar sites can share what worked.

If your preceptor and advisor disagree, lean toward your advisor on academic requirements and look for a framing that satisfies both.

Check the rules and stay flexible

Confirm how many competencies you need and the required mix of foundational and concentration competencies in your practicum handbook. Most programs allow changes if your site's projects shift; raise it early, ideally at your midpoint review, with a clear rationale. For help getting past the decision, see five-competency selection paralysis.