Job Shadow Program

The Job Shadow Program offers short-term, in-person experiential learning opportunities that connect students and graduates with professionals working in fields of interest. Participants are matched with hosts and visit their workplaces to observe daily tasks, learn about career pathways, and gain firsthand insight into industry environments. Through job shadowing, participants can explore career options, clarify work-related interests, build professional connections, and increase confidence in their career development and job search. The program is offered during the Fall and Winter semesters, includes mandatory preparation activities, and is voluntary, unpaid, and extracurricular. Participation is subject to host availability, and successful matching is not guaranteed.

Service Offerings

• Short-term, in-person job shadow experiences

• Matching with professionals based on career interest

• Workplace exposure to daily professional activities

• Career exploration and industry insight

• Networking with professionals

• Pre-program training and preparation

• Program coordination and administrative support

How to Access

1. Complete the online application. Review and select preferred hosts.
2. Receive match confirmation (if selected) and complete mandatory training.

Hours of Operation
The program is offered twice a year during the fall and winter reading weeks.

What to Expect

The Job Shadow Program offers limited, short-term, in-person experiences during Fall and Winter terms, with competitive matching based on host availability. Participants can expect coordinated administration, clear communication, required preparation, and email-based support, though individual experiences may vary depending on host and workplace conditions.

Cost

Program fee: $35 (paid only after being matched with a host)
Incidental costs (e.g., meals, parking, transit) may apply
Fee support is available upon request if cost is a barrier
Program fees are covered for Indigenous participants through Alumni Relations

Special Conditions

  • Voluntary, unpaid, and extracurricular participation
  • Dependent on host availability and workplace capacity
  • Mandatory training required before participation
  • Participants must coordinate details with their host
  • Incidental expenses may apply
  • Participants are responsible for their own conduct and actions
  • University not liable for injury, loss, or accidents during job shadowing

Contact

780-492-4291
yourcareercentre@ualberta.ca

Relevant Links

Job Shadow Program

Audience: Undergraduate students, Graduate students

Home Campus: North Campus

Delivery format: In-Person: North Campus

Access: Application Required

Service Provider: Career Centre

Language: English