Observerships | School of Medicine

Overview

An observership is a short‑term, non‑clinical learning experience that allows individuals to observe clinical care, educational activities, or department operations within the hospital environment.

Observers do not provide patient care or make clinical decisions and therefore do not require a medical license from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). As a result, observerships do not fall under the oversight or registration processes of the Postgraduate Medical Education Office.

Contact the Department or Program of Interest

Applicants must first reach out directly to the department or program they wish to observe.
The department will determine:

Whether they can accommodate an observer
Which supervisor would host the experience
The dates and type of activities allowed

If the department agrees to host the observership, they will initiate the formal request with the Medical Affairs Office.

Please note: The Medical Affairs Office does not arrange observership placements. All approvals and arrangements must originate from the hosting department.

Important Notes for Applicants

Observerships are strictly observational and non‑clinical.
Approval and availability vary by department and are not guaranteed.
Departmental acceptance must be secured before any documentation can begin.