Semester in Chicago
Explore the endless possibilities to make a meaningful impact in the fields of education or social work during your Semester in Chicago.
Trinity’s Semester in Chicago program is the newest iteration of Chicago Semester, a consortium-based program run by six midwestern Reformed colleges and universities that served thousands of students over 50 years (1974-2024) who wanted to come to Chicago to live, learn, and intern in the city.
Trinity’s relaunch of Semester in Chicago (SIC) in the fall of 2024 aligns with the college’s commitment to neighborhood transformation and partnership. Students from partner institutions seeking a dynamic placement in social work or education and eager to collaborate with a diverse array of schools and organizations throughout the city are welcome to apply for either the fall or spring semesters.
Our SIC program has decades of experience in establishing strong partnerships with Chicago Public Schools and other school districts, ensuring invaluable experience for education students. Additionally, for those interested in social work, we offer placements at non-profit organizations focused on criminal justice, family and children services, among several others, providing a comprehensive and enriching experience in the heart of Chicago. Questions? Reach out to Program Director Rebecca Burwell at rburwell@trnty.edu or Chicago@trnty.edu
Applications for Fall 25, and Spring 26 are due by April 1st for both semesters.
List of courses for Fall 2025/SPR 26 (please review with your advisor and home registrar):
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Courses:
- SWK 400 Field Experience and SWK 401 Professional Seminar;
- EDUC 450 Field Education and EDUC 454 Professional Seminar;
- If a vocations/senior seminar course is needed, students can take Trinity’s Foundations 201 seminar
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Courses:
- SWK 400 Field Experience and SWK 401 Professional Seminar;
- EDUC 450 Field Education and EDUC 454 Field Seminar;
- If a vocations/senior seminar course is needed, students can take Trinity’s Foundations 201 seminar
Start and end dates:
- FA 25: Orientation August 15-17; internships and student teaching start August 18th-December 5th (approximate)
- SPR26: Orientation, January 9-11; internship and classes start January 12th – April 30th (approximate)
Summary for Students:
During their semester, students attending the Semester in Chicago (SIC) program engage in enriching professional development, an orientation to the city, arts and cultural events, internship placement and support, and coursework that accompanies their field experience.
Depending on their track (education or social work) students can obtain between 12-15 credits for their semester internship and course work. Applications for both fall and spring semesters are due Aril 1st.
Once students are accepted into the program, they will work with the respective field directors to find an appropriate social work or student teaching placement. Field placement needs (dual placements, additional projects or semester hour requirements, EdTPA, etc.) must be specified in the application and clarified during the placement process. Students have a variety of housing options: Semester in Chicago maintains relationships with different housing vendors in Chicago.
If students opt to live in Palos Heights on Trinty’s campus, they will need a car to get to their placement sites. Semester In Chicago provides a CTA pass and orientation to the public transportation system for all participants in the program.
In-person orientation takes place the first three days of each semester and includes an overview of the program, an introduction to Chicago neighborhoods, review of public transportation, and tips for living and working in Chicago.
