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Archives Practicum
Program Information

Image: part of Banff Centre's Now and Then series at our campus pool. Original photo by Kim Chan. Modern day photo by Jessica Wittman.
Overview
The Archives Practicum program is designed for new archivists with an interest in artistic, multimedia, and/or corporate records. This hands-on experience allows new professionals to gain skills and learn from Banff Centre’s Archivist.
The Archivist will mentor the participant in an area of interest such as digitization and digital archiving, arrangement and description, records management, or reference and outreach. The participant will also receive a general overview of the activities of an Archives and Records Management Centre, with introductions to all key aspects of archival practice.
What does the program offer?
This program offers an introduction to archival practice, and particularly one with large artistic, multimedia, and digital holdings. Practical experience may involve accessioning and describing records (which may be artistic and/or administrative in nature), or identifying and implementing best practices regarding preservation and digitization of audio-visual materials. These projects will provide practical experience in the main areas of the archival profession.
Learning opportunities may also arise through attendance at lectures, workshops, and events related to arts programming at Banff Centre. Participants will also have the opportunity to focus on and conduct personal research activities as outlined in their learning objectives and project proposal.
Who should apply?
Practicum placements are appropriate for recent graduates of Master of Archival Studies (MAS) programs or Master in Library and Information Science (MLIS) programs, with an interest in archival work. Summer placements for students who have finished at least one year in a MAS/MLIS program will also be considered.
This is an opportunity for a new professional to gain experience and expand and develop their career and capabilities. The program requires a full-time commitment.
What's Included
You are eligible for Banff Centre housing (based on availability). You are responsible for your own room and board costs. Current rates for Banff Centre accommodation are $8.06 / day (shared) or $16.12 / day (single) and will be deducted from the living allowance.
As space is extremely limited, Banff Centre housing is available for practicum participants only.
You will receive a living allowance of $61 per day.
Note that financial assistance and stipend awards are considered taxable income for Revenue Canada.
Your program fee includes free access to the swimming pool, climbing gym, and fitness suite as well as discounted rates for classes at the Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre.
Access a wide range of publications, books, music, and films in the Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives, open six days a week.
Enjoy special artist rates for ticketed performances or complimentary access to events.
Enrich your experience and get to know other artists on campus by taking advantage of the activities and support provided by our Participant Resources team.
Fees & Financial Assistance
Application fee: $65
*The weekly program fee is covered 100% by financial assistance from Banff Centre.
Successful applicants will receive a daily living allowance while part of the program. Practicums are responsible for their own room and board costs but are eligible for subsidized Banff Centre housing based on availability (see What's Included for more information).
Help fund your experience at Banff Centre! View a compiled list of national and international opportunities here.
How to Apply
Learn more about the steps to Complete Your Application.
Adjudication
Participants are selected by impartial adjudicators on the basis of their submitted material. In addition to education and knowledge, consideration will be given to the likelihood that the participant will benefit from the program.
All programs, faculty, dates, fees, and offers of financial assistance are subject to change. Program fee is subject to applicable taxes. Non-refundable fees and deposits will be retained upon cancellation. Any other fees are refunded at the discretion of the Banff Centre. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. Mountain Standard Time.
Contact the Registrar
For questions on preparing your application, please contact the Office of the Registrar: