Overview
“POLS 598: Internship in Political Studies” is a new experiential learning program that starts in the Winter 2023 term. It provides third- and fourth-year Political Studies and Politics-stream PPE students with the opportunity to develop practical skills related to their degree by pairing them with local organizations that are engaged in work related to politics, in the broadest sense of the term.
Course
The course is pass/fail and worth 3.0 credit units. Students will work a total of 90 hours (maximum 10 per week) with a partner organization, and participate in classroom meetings facilitated by the Internship Coordinator Dr. Stephen Larin, with orientation at the beginning of the term, a mid-term check-in, and presentations at the end of the term. Students will be evaluated based on weekly journal entries, their presentation, a final report, and completion of placement hours. The internships are unpaid, but this makes it possible to have more placements, and opens the program to international students who do not have the right to paid employment in Canada.
Political work
We define political work broadly. As our students know, politics is not just about elections and political parties, but almost anything that affects the distribution of power in society. That is why our partner roster covers such a wide range of sectors and organizations, including constituency offices, City Hall, and public service agencies, but also non-governmental organizations that focus on topics such as food security, gender equity, the environment, newcomer integration, and community service.
For the full list of our partners and information about the experience they are offering, navigate to the ‘Partners’ tab above.
Eligibility criteria
- Third or fourth-year Major or Joint Honours in Political Studies, or in the Politics stream of the Politics, Philosophy, and Economics specialization
- Minimum 3.3 Grade Point Average (B+) across all completed Political Studies courses
- Enthusiastic about gaining practical experience, helping a local organization, and representing Queen’s in the Kingston community
How to apply
Application for the Winter 2023 term is now closed. Information about the 2023-24 iteration of the program and how to apply will be announced in early 2023.
More questions?
Navigate to the 'FAQ' tab above for answers to frequently asked questions.
Partners
This is an alphabetical list of the 32 placements offered by our 22 partners. Please review it carefully before applying, and note any special requirements such as a police record check. The list was last updated on 27 October and may be updated again prior to the 28 October application deadline.
Enter a topic in the search box ('policy', 'housing', or 'environment', for example) to see placements related to that topic.
The roster is also available to download in PDF format.
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Addiction & Mental Health Services – KFLADescriptionAs a leading, transformative, and collaborative organization, AMHS-KFLA’s mission is to provide responsive, high-quality, community-based addiction and mental health services that empower the people it serves to be well and achieve their full potential. AMHS-KFLA provides a range of programs and services with a mandate to provide responsive, confidential, non-judgmental, community-based addiction and mental health services to nearly 8,000 individuals in Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington experiencing serious mental health illness and addictions. Crisis services are accessible to anyone experiencing a mental health and/or addictions crisis. Websitehttps://amhs-kfla.ca/InternshipAMH-KFLA is already known throughout the region as a destination for clinical placement students seeking experience in the mental health and addictions sector, and beginning in 2023 we are proud to offer our first Political Studies Internship in conjunction with the department. This is a dynamic placement opportunity with the largest community mental health and addictions organization in KFLA, and we are particularly interested in students who are considering a career in the health care sector. Students will be directly supervised by a member of our leadership team and work with staff and other leadership. Overall, students will have the opportunity to develop skills in research, policy writing, knowledge translation, and project management. Special RequirementsVulnerable sector check. |
Association canadienne-française de l’Ontario, Conseil régional des Mille-Îles (ACFOMI)DescriptionACFOMI strives to welcome, develop, fulfill, and vitalize the French-speaking community in the Thousand Islands region through diversified programming and services. Websitehttps://www.acfomi.ca/InternshipL’ACFOMI a trois secteurs d’activités qui pourraient intéresser le ou la stagiaire. Cette personne pourra décider de travailler pour un ou plusieurs de ces secteurs. Nous offrons des services aux francophones, des services d’établissement pour les nouveaux arrivants immigrants et des services d’employabilité.
Nous encourageons l’innovation et sommes ouverts à tout projet qui profitera à notre organisme. Special RequirementsStudents must be able to speak, read, and write French fluently to apply for this placement. |
Cataraqui ConservationDescriptionCataraqui Conservation is a community-based environmental protection and advisory agency, created in 1964 by the Province of Ontario at the request of municipalities within the Cataraqui watershed. Its core mandate is to work in partnership with local municipalities, provincial and federal government agencies, environmental organizations, and the general public to monitor and protect water, natural habitats, shorelines, and promote sustainable living in our community. Websitehttps://cataraquiconservation.ca/InternshipCataraqui Conservation owns and manages over 4700ha of property in the region. These properties have a variety of purposes that include natural hazard protection, ecological preservation and public recreation in the form of trails, education programs and facilities. Due to recent legislative updates to the Conservation Authorities Act and Provincial requirements, Cataraqui Conservation will be reviewing and updating existing property master plans and policies into a comprehensive Conservation Area Strategy. The primary task of an intern would be to assist with a project to meet these provincial requirements, part of which is to assist in the development of the Conservation Area Strategy for the Conservation Lands Program. Special RequirementsThe Cataraqui Conservation office is only accessible by car. |
Citizen Engagement and Ethnocultural Services (Regional Headquarters, Correctional Service of Canada)DescriptionThe Correctional Service of Canada provides the care and custody of men and women who are serving a sentence, imposed by the Courts, for two years or more. Offenders belonging to Ethnocultural minority groups often have specific needs based on race, language, culture, or belief system. The Ethnocultural Services Department works to address these needs to help preserve and promote cultural identity and practices. Interventions, services and activities are in place to ensure the specific needs and cultural interests of Ethnocultural offenders are identified and met. Websitehttps://www.csc-scc.gc.caInternshipThe intern will work closely with the manager of department to provide an overview of the available services and will work on micro-missions and small projects which will aim to provide an overview of how the CSC works with other government departments within the Public Safety portfolio in meeting our mandate. Special RequirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
CNIB KingstonDescriptionDescription Founded in 1918, CNIB is a non-profit organization driven to change what it is to be blind today. It delivers innovative programs and powerful advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion. Its work as a blind foundation is powered by a network of volunteers, donors and partners from coast to coast to coast. Websitewww.cnib.caInternshipInternship This internship will assist with driving forward our advocacy, government relations, and public policy work alongside our advocacy staff and volunteers. It will provide the opportunity for a Political Studies student to put their education and knowledge into practice through their involvement in making impactful, lasting change in our communities and implementing best practices in advocacy and government relations to meet our advocacy goals.
Special RequirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence, Covid-19 vaccination, and three references. |
Communications (Regional Headquarters, Correctional Service of Canada)DescriptionThe Correctional Service of Canada provides the care and custody of men and women who are serving a sentence, imposed by the Courts, for two years or more. The Communications department provides advice and recommendations to senior management in the region and acts as the voice of CSC, responding to media and public enquiries. It participates in projects and liaises with clients to develop, prepare, implement, and deliver communication products and services such as news releases, proposals, presentations, stories and a variety of multimedia material. Websitehttps://www.csc-scc.gc.caInternshipThe intern will work closely with the manager of department to provide an overview of the available services and will work on micro-missions and small projects which will aim to provide an overview of how the CSC works with other government departments within the Public Safety portfolio in meeting our mandate. Special RequirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Community Living Kingston and DistrictDescriptionCommunity Living Kingston and District (CLKD) is a developmental service organization that supports approximately 750 individuals with an intellectual disability, both children and adults, through nine accredited programs. The organization began in 1953 when parents of disabled children came together to form an Association to provide mutual support, develop services and advocate for a more inclusive community where everyone belongs. That mission and spirit continue to drive the activities of CLKD to this day. Websitehttps://myclkd.ca/InternshipThere are a number of strategic priorities and emerging critical issues that would be an appropriate area of focus for the intern from Queen’s. These include, but are not limited to, changes in funding and legislation for particular programs, disability rights issues, developing unique and creative models of service that address crisis situations, collaborating with other sectors such as addictions and mental health, and confronting issues of accessibility and citizenship. The main point of contact for the student will be the Executive Director, although collaboration with other stakeholders (management, staff, parents, persons served, government) will also be part of the learning experience. Special RequirementsPolice record and vulnerable sector checks for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Constituency Office of Member of Parliament Mark GerretsenDescriptionMark Gerretsen has been the Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands and a member of the Liberal Caucus since 2015. In 2021 he was appointed Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons (Senate). He is also currently a member of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs. Websitehttps://markgerretsen.libparl.ca/InternshipThis internship is located at MP Mark Gerretsen’s constituency office, where all activities connecting MP Gerretsen and the House of Commons to the constituents of Kingston and the Islands takes place. The tasks involved in this position would include drafting letters and emails to constituents, drafting remarks for both local and parliamentary events, policy and legislative research related to the federal government, background research on topics of relevance to Kingston and the Islands, helping track bills, and identifying and monitoring specific issues. |
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (City of Kingston)DescriptionThe City of Kingston’s Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Office leads and supports various initiatives within the corporation and the community to ensure that corporate services, policies, and programs support and represent the diverse communities in Kingston. Websitehttps://www.cityofkingston.ca/city-hallInternshipPotential internships will work closely with the manager of area to provide an overview of the available services and will work on micro-missions and small projects which will aim to provide an overview of how the CSC works with other government departments within the Public Safety portfolio in meeting our mandate. Special RequirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Greater Kingston Chamber of CommerceDescriptionThe Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce is the oldest chamber of commerce in Ontario. It is committed to stimulating the growth and prosperity of the local business community, and seeks to influence public policy, be the catalyst for connectivity, and provide unique competitive advantages for our members. Websitehttps://www.kingstonchamber.ca/InternshipPolicy: Support research alongside Policy Coordinator, such as reviewing and summarizing materials, addressing member questions and concerns and preparing correspondence for review. Examples of work that is in progress and what a potential project could look like:
Government Relations: Consult with public officials and stakeholders to exchange information, participate in committees work.
Administrative Support: Prepare documents as needed (correspondence, agendas, reports, spreadsheets, presentations), often of a confidential nature. Other duties as required.
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Girls Incorporated of Limestone, Algonquin and LakeshoreDescriptionGirls Inc. provides life-changing programs and experiences that help girls navigate gender, economic, and social barriers. Their comprehensive approach addresses all aspects of a girls' life and helps her discover and develop inherent strengths. Girls receive programming to grow up healthy, educated, and independent. Websitehttps://www.girlsinclimestone.ca/InternshipAssistance with the second half of our one-year project to plan and develop a fundraising campaign for our Girls Ed Program throughout Frontenac, Lennox & Addington, Hastings and Prince Edward counties. This will include analyzing fundraising feasibility study data, gathering community feedback on our case for support prior to the launch of our program delivery fundraising campaign, assisting with the development of a stewardship plan, and other related fund development tasks. |
Housing and Social Services (City of Kingston)DescriptionThe City of Kingston’s Housing and Social Services department provides front-line service to residents of Kingston and Frontenac County for a variety of social and community assistance programs. Websitehttps://www.cityofkingston.ca/city-hallInternshipInternship The Housing and Social Services Department is managing a wide variety of programs in the human services sector ranging from providing income support through social assistance, childcare subsidy and operational funding to childcare and EarlyON providers, managing the social housing funding and operations, development of affordable housing, supporting the homelessness system and the facilitation and implementation of the community safety and wellbeing plan. An internship in the Housing and Social Services Department will focus on researching a topic in one of the above mentioned areas that will help support a program change or initiative in the department or the broader community. A topic will be selected in collaboration with the student, based on their interest and the departments’ needs at the time of the placement. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
KCHC – Community HealthDescriptionCommunity Health (CH) is part of Kingston Community Health Centres (KCHC), a multi-service and multi-site non-profit organisation that supports all aspects of health through all stages of life. CH empowers individuals and families to improve their health and build healthy communities, and makes special efforts to serve people who have a higher risk of poor health, and people who are having difficulty finding health care because of language or cultural barriers, poverty, or isolation. Its activities pay particular attention to the social, emotional and financial needs of its clients, since these are the pre-requisites of health. Websitehttps://kchc.ca/community-health-team/InternshipThe intern will work alongside our staff on projects that improve community well-being. Projects include food security, intergenerational programming, social groups, and skills development. The intern will have the opportunity to learn about poverty issues directly from clients who are experiencing food insecurity and struggling with housing issues. In particular, the intern will be given the opportunity to research the issue of affordable housing, learning first-hand about the struggles our clients face and researching potential solutions. Special RequirementsPolice record check, vulnerable sector check, and up-to-date immunizations, including Covid-19. |
KCHC – Immigrant Services Kingston and AreaDescriptionImmigrant Services Kingston and Area (ISKA) is part of Kingston Community Health Centres (KCHC), a multi-service and multi-site non-profit organization that supports all aspects of health through all stages of life. ISKA serves newcomers to the area, and its main objective is to accompany them through their settlement journey to help make their transition as smooth as possible. It offers a variety of free services which include, but not limited to, filling out government documents, advocacy, and referrals. Websitehttps://kchc.ca/weller-avenue/immigrant-services/InternshipAn intern could engage in activities such as helping staff in their everyday work, conducting research on topics such as best practices and ways to integrate new programs, looking for funding opportunities, proposing projects that might support our programming, and facilitating projects or programs. The everyday work includes things such as one-on-one appointments and group sessions with clients, including children, youth, women and men groups, and focusing on activities ranging from English Conversation Circles to ethnic cooking. Students who can speak another language are particularly welcome because we have many clients who speak no or very little English. Special requirementsPolice record check, vulnerable sector check, and up-to-date immunizations, including Covid-19. |
KFL&A Public HealthDescriptionKFL&A Public Health is a local public health agency that delivers public health programs and services to the people of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington area. The goal of its services and programs is to promote and protect the health of the region’s residents in public health areas such as immunization, communicable diseases, physical activity, nutritious eating, food safety, maternal and child health, sexual health, tobacco use reduction, and many others. Websitehttps://www.kflaph.ca/InternshipThe internship at KFL&A Public Health will familiarize students with the work of Public Health in both public health policy and healthy public policy. Students will be part of interdisciplinary teams working with health promoters, nurses, inspectors, and other public health staff examining topic areas in health promotion, health protection, and emergency management. There may be opportunities to be involved in policy briefs, policy analyses, and meetings with various community stakeholders. Additionally, students are welcome to join professional development activities at the agency and may have a chance to develop presentation skills for both internal and external audiences. Special requirementsUp-to-date immunizations, including Covid-19, and a police record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence for some types of internship activities. |
Kingston PoliceDescriptionKingston Police is the municipal police organization for the City of Kingston. It defines its mission as protecting and promoting safety and quality of life for everyone in the city of Kingston through proactive community-based and problem-solving policing. Websitehttps://www.kingstonpolice.ca/InternshipWorking collaboratively with Senior Management, the Equity, Diversity & Inclusion officer, and the Media Relations officer, the intern will develop an internal and external communications strategy with a goal to increase trust and confidence in policing. The communications strategy will include both government and community relations, as well as media and internal communication. Drawing on their established knowledge base and research skills, the intern will need to consider the complex nature of policing and its associated confidentiality requirements while simultaneously incorporating courses of action that ensure inclusive and respectful communications. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Limestone District School Board – Office of the Director of EducationDescriptionThe Limestone District School Board offers elementary and secondary students an education that is enriched with diverse and unique programming opportunities and activities to complement the Ontario curriculum while supporting the achievement and well-being of every student. The Board's district serves more than 19,000 students in 55 schools and 5 alternative education centres across the City of Kingston, the Townships of Central Frontenac, North Frontenac, South Frontenac, Addington Highlands, Loyalist, Stone Mills, the Frontenac Islands and the Town of Greater Napanee. Websitehttps://www.limestone.on.ca/InternshipAn internship with Limestone District School Board could encompass a range of potential activities. The placement will be connected to the office of the Director of Education and could include supporting strategic planning; reviewing policy and procedures; supporting board communications; and supporting student, staff, and/or community engagement related to a range of initiatives. Special requirementsPolice record and vulnerable sector check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence; and oath of confidentiality. |
Litigation Management (Regional Headquarters, Correctional Service of Canada)DescriptionThe Correctional Service of Canada provides the care and custody of men and women who are serving a sentence, imposed by the Courts, for two years or more. The Litigation Management office works closely with Senior Officials and the Department of Justice to facilitate and coordinate responses in defence of various types of litigation filed against CSC by offenders, including habeas corpus applications, judicial review applications, claims for damages, class action lawsuits, and Human Rights complaints. Websitehttps://www.csc-scc.gc.caInternshipThe intern will work closely with the manager of department to provide an overview of the available services and will work on micro-missions and small projects which will aim to provide an overview of how the CSC works with other government departments within the Public Safety portfolio in meeting our mandate. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Loving SpoonfulDescriptionLoving Spoonful builds community around good food throughout Kingston and area by utilizing innovative, collaborative programs and outreach. The fundamental principle underlying Loving Spoonful’s work is that all people need good food to thrive. Loving Spoonful recognizes that food is a powerful community builder and engages in partnerships across the region to create social inclusion and a strong local food system. Loving Spoonful promotes, supports, and champions programs and policy change that realizes social, environmental, and economic justice. Websitehttps://www.lovingspoonful.org/InternshipThe internship with Loving Spoonful is research-based (completing a scoping or literature review) with a focus on the politics of food sovereignty or guaranteed basic income. Along with this review, we would hope to see how the research algins with Loving Spoonful’s current programs, advocacy initiatives, and strategic vision over the next three years. |
Office of the City Clerk (City of Kingston)DescriptionThe City of Kingston’s Office of the City Clerk provides governance and administrative support for Kingston City Council and committees of Council. Websitehttps://www.cityofkingston.ca/city-hallInternshipThis internship will provide the opportunity for policy related research and the application of City-related research, data analysis, and database development. The intern will monitor developments in legislation, governmental policies, procedures, or trends, that impact the Corporation. The intern will be required to maintain awareness of local municipal issues, including monitoring social media websites, newspapers, and other local media coverage. The intern will perform benchmarking studies and research the best practices adopted by the City's municipal comparators. Excellent communication skills, advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 (including experience using SharePoint), and the ability to interpret and understand legislation, municipal by-laws, City policies and procedures, protocols, and related guidelines would all be assets. The intern would be expected to develop a basic understanding of local government before starting the internship. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Offices of the Chief Administrative Officer and the Mayor (City of Kingston)DescriptionThe City of Kingston’s offices of the Chief Administrative Officer and the Mayor provide management and administrative leadership for overall delivery of municipal services with a focus on customer service, citizen engagement and strategic leadership to meet the needs of Kingston’s growing and diverse community. Websitehttps://www.cityofkingston.ca/city-hallInternshipThe internship with the CAO and Mayor’s Offices for the City of Kingston would involve research on legislation and public policy having an impact at the municipal level and the development of an advocacy strategy for provincial and federal levels of government. This could include research locally as well as the impact in other municipalities in matters such as (for example): chronic homelessness, housing affordability, mental health and addictions crises facing the community, planning and development policies etc., and the call to action required to influence change. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Partners in Mission Food BankDescriptionPartners in Mission Food Bank’s seeks to provide nourishment, hope, and support in the Kingston community, with an opportunity for all to share. It is working toward a community where everyone has access to adequate, nutritious food and an atmosphere of respect and compassion. It provides food hampers to our neighbours in need and donates surplus provisions to 15 local hot meal and shelter programs in the Kingston area. Websitehttps://www.kingstonfoodbank.ca/InternshipAn intern would assist with range of different activities associated with the Food Bank’s work, with the primary task of helping to develop a plan for the organisation to effectively engage with local pollical leaders (MP, MPP, Councillors). This will implement one of the goals its long-term strategic plan, and would include planning and facilitating open house events such as special invite nights for political leaders, media, local company officials, and the general public. |
Planning Services (City of Kingston)DescriptionThrough progressive, professional planning services the City of Kingston’s Planning Services Department ensures that the City is planned and developed in accordance with the Planning Act, the Ontario Heritage Act, the Provincial Policy Statement and good planning principles in order to meet the needs of all who work, live, visit or play in the City of Kingston. Websitehttps://www.cityofkingston.ca/city-hallInternshipAs an intern in the Planning Services department, the position would be connected to the forthcoming Municipal Comprehensive Review (MCR) of the Official Plan, scheduled to commence in 2023. Working on the MCR, the intern would have an opportunity to participate in the planning process governed by the Planning Act and may be tasked to assist with the creation of policies or discussion papers, background research about best practices on specific planning topics, the formation of engagement plans that are inclusive and foster equity and diversity in our community or other project tasks that will contribute to the creation of an innovative, forward-thinking policy document guiding the City’s growth for the next 25 years. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Policy and Planning (Regional Headquarters, Correctional Service of Canada)DescriptionThe Correctional Service of Canada provides the care and custody of men and women who are serving a sentence, imposed by the Courts, for two years or more. The Policy and Planning department liaises with provincial and territorial partners to negotiate agreements, manage bed space, and monitor the related financial agreements. In addition, this area is responsible for Access to Information and Privacy requests at the regional level. Websitehttps://www.csc-scc.gc.caInternshipThe intern will work closely with the manager of department to provide an overview of the available services and will work on micro-missions and small projects which will aim to provide an overview of how the CSC works with other government departments within the Public Safety portfolio in meeting our mandate. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Queen’s University ArchivesDescriptionQueen's University Archives undertakes its activities in order to manage, preserve, conserve, and make accessible the information assets of the University; to maintain an authentic record of the programs, people, and operations of the University; to provide archival management and conservation for culturally significant records of external organizations and individuals in support of the teaching, research, service, and administration interests of Queen's University. Websitehttps://archives.queensu.ca/InternshipCanadian public affairs is a major strength of the Queen's University Archives. Our holdings contain the papers of individual politicians such as Thomas A. Crerar, Robert Nixon, and Hugh Segal (to name just a few). The Archives is also the repository for the municipal papers of the City of Kingston and the provincial party records for Ontario Liberal Party and the Ontario New Democratic Party. The current internship involves working with the papers of the Ontario New Democratic Party. There have been a number of additions to the papers over the years and the finding aids are not fully reflective of the material we hold. The student will undertake assigned project(s) within the records of the Party in consultation with an archivist gaining hands-on experience in the practices of archives, how material is arranged and described, and made accessible to the researching public. This would be ideal for a student interested in graduate work, primary source research, or learning fundamentals about the operations of party politics in Canada. |
Rotary Club of KingstonDescriptionRotary International brings together a global network of volunteer leaders who dedicate their time and talent to tackle the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. It connects 1.2 million members from more than 200 countries and geographical areas making a difference in lives at both the local and international levels. The Rotary Club of Kingston strives to empower youth, improve health and well-being, promote peace and sustainability, and help support organizations and projects in our community that protect our most vulnerable citizens. Websitehttps://www.kingstonrotary.ca/InternshipAn intern could engage in a wide variety of activities, including strategic planning; research and planning for upcoming projects; environmental committee work; grant applications through the Rotary Foundation for international projects; social media management; and equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives. Rotary Kingston is also working to support Ukrainian families coming to Kingston, packing food boxes for 1500 school families in the Kingston area once a month, and fundraising for worthy causes. |
Social Planning Council of Kingston & DistrictDescriptionThe Social Planning Council of Kingston & District (SPC) is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization and registered charity, which has operated in Kingston since 1930. The SPC envisions Kingston as an inclusive community striving to be civically engaged, socially responsible, economically and environmentally sustainable, respectful of diversity, and supportive of positive change, and its mission is to enhance the social, cultural, and economic well-being of the city. Websitehttps://www.spckingstonanddistrict.org/InternshipThe Intern will be involved in on-going projects by the SPCK&D. In Winter 2022-Summer 2023, the major project deals with tenant displacement from their housing and how to mobilize tenants to reduce the impacts of homelessness and find useful pathways to improved and affordable housing. As well, the SPCK&D hosts many community webinars on a range of housing and planning topics providing on-going assistance to local groups involved. Work relates to engagement and mobilizing knowledge with the community networks of non-profits and service providers so as to improve quality of life in supportive communities. |
Strategy, Innovation & Partnerships (City of Kingston)DescriptionThe City of Kingston’s Strategy, Innovation & Partnerships Department leads a number of innovative initiatives on behalf of the Corporation, including: workforce development and in-migration strategy implementation, smart city opportunities, enhancing partnerships with post-secondary institutions, grants administration, marketing and branding, economic development, and oversight of the airport division. Websitehttps://www.cityofkingston.ca/city-hallInternshipThe Office of Strategy, Innovation & Partnerships oversees a number of functions including economic development program delivery, social impact projects, partnership and grant development, corporate and community innovation, and research & data. This internship is an exciting opportunity to participate in public policy, project and program development using human-centred design principles, and applying skills to solve real-world challenges. Disrupt the status quo, reimagine and reshape ways to address issues, and build and test innovative solutions. Gain hands-on experience to drive proof of concept from ideation to execution, grow project leadership skills and work with partners across the corporation and the community. This work will create meaningful social impact with projects including sustainable development goals, research to support grant funding applications, and help advancing the City’s new corporate innovation strategy. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Sustainable KingstonDescriptionSustainable Kingston is a non-profit organization that’s mission is to enhance the livability and resiliency of Kingston. It seeks to facilitate the effective transition towards environmental, social, cultural, and economic sustainability, and to raise awareness and establish strategic partnerships to inspire community engagement and foster more livable and resilient communities. Websitehttps://www.sustainablekingston.com/InternshipSustainable Kingston is thrilled to participate with Queen’s University in the Experiential Learning Placement program. This position will provide a student with an opportunity to work closely with municipal governments on expanding the sustaianably.eco program, developing potential service level agreements and municipal residential energy programs, and helping grow our commercial energy audit program among municipalities and First Nations communities. There is also an opportunity to work closely with the City of Kingston on the Better Homes Kingston program and as a co-producer of the sustainably.eco podcast. |
Transportation Services (City of Kingston)DescriptionThe City of Kingston’s Transportation Services Department provides vital services to support the city’s transportation system and municipal operations. It is responsible for transportation planning, active transportation, parking services, and traffic. Websitehttps://www.cityofkingston.ca/city-hallInternshipInternship The internship with Transportation Services will involve research and support in the development of initiatives to foster sustainable transportation habits. The intern will be responsible for supporting the implementation of transportation policies and programs arising from the City’s Active Transportation Implementation Plan (2019-2023). This will involve the development of a multi-faceted campaign to promote and encourage walking or cycling for shorter neighbourhood-based trips, such as trips to school, the grocery store, local community centre, or park. As part of this work, the intern will lead research into the promotional efforts and educational programs in other cities that have led to measurable lasting shifts to more sustainable travel behaviour. The intern will also be responsible for developing a strategy to promote the City’s bicycle registration system, Garage 529, with a focus on post-secondary students in Kingston. Lastly, the intern will have an opportunity to develop preferred walking and cycling routes to schools in consultation with the broader Transportation Services team and school communities. More broadly, the intern will have an opportunity to be involved in other initiatives of the Transportation Policy & Programs group, including policy development, public engagement analysis, and the implementation of road safety initiatives. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
United Way KFL&ADescriptionThe United Way’s mission is to build and strengthen our community by bringing people and resources together to facilitate change. It provides leadership in driving social change, partnerships, and collaborative innovation, and aspires to a future where people are self-sufficient in a community where individuals live with hope, dignity and a sense of belonging. Websitehttps://www.unitedwaykfla.ca/InternshipIn addition to funding programs that support residents, United Way researches issues and develops community plans to address root causes of issues that impact people locally. The intern would work with the Community Impact department to research key issues like homelessness, mental health, addictions, poverty, food security, etc., providing the United Way with key facts and data to support the work being done in the community. The student would also consolidate and analyze data provided by funded agencies, categorized by issue and topic. This is then reviewed by the Leadership team and compiled for the annual Community Impact report. An example of this can be seen here: https://www.unitedwaykfla.ca/communityimpactreport/ |
Youth DiversionDescriptionYouth Diversion helps youth overcome challenges by providing prevention, intervention, and educational services that divert youth from risk and support their ability to thrive. All youth in our community are supported in making choices that contribute to their overall wellbeing, help them reach their potential, and expand their leadership capacity. Websitehttps://www.youthdiversion.org/InternshipAn internship with Youth Diversion would provide the following opportunities:
Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence and three personal references in order to work directly with clients. |
Frequently asked questions
Please read through these questions and answers carefully before contacting the Internship Coordinator.
Can I arrange my own internship and receive credit for POLS 598?
No, only internships arranged by the Department of Political Studies as part of this program are eligible for POLS 598 credit. Students are welcome to suggest potential partners for the program, but this will not affect the internship application, selection, or allocation procedures. For other internship opportunities, please consult the Queen's Career Services website.
When does the program start?
January 2023. POLS 598 is a course that will be part of its participants' regular course load, in the Winter 2023 term for the first cohort. It is not a Summer program.
Will I receive credit for the internship?
Yes. POLS 598 is a one-term, 3.0 credit course that is graded pass/fail.
How does POLS 598 count in the Political Studies or PPE program?
POLS 598 will generally count as a fourth-year options course, but can also count as a second- or third-year options course. It cannot be used to fulfil any mandatory course requirements.
How many placements are available?
The program currently offers 32 placements across 22 partners. Navigate to the ‘Partners’ tab above for the roster.
Where are the partners located?
All of our partners are based or have offices in Kingston. All but one are either within walking distance of campus or accessible by public transit.
Are the placements in-person?
All placements are either in-person or hybrid in-person and remote. We are not offering all-remote placements at this time, but that may change as the program grows. Note that the character of hybrid placements will vary. Some of our partners are small volunteer organizations that do not have a physical office, so in-person meetings will be less-frequent and may be held at a coffee shop or somewhere similar.
How many students will be accepted to the program?
The program is capped at 20 students for the Winter 2023 term. We anticipate expanding the program significantly in subsequent years.
What are the eligibility criteria?
- Third or fourth-year Major or Joint Honours in Political Studies, or in the Politics stream of the Politics, Philosophy, and Economics specialization
- Minimum 3.3 Grade Point Average (B+) across all completed Political Studies courses
- Enthusiastic about gaining practical experience, helping a local organization, and representing Queen’s in the Kingston community
I am a fifth-year student. Can I still apply?
No, the program is only open to third and fourth-year students. Note, however, that this refers to degree-year and not time-in-degree, so some students (such as part-time students) are eligible even if they have been registered in their degree program for more than four years.
Does experience matter?
No! One of the purposes of this program is to break the ‘you need experience to get experience’ opportunity barrier.
I am an international student who does not have the right to paid employment in Canada. Am I eligible to participate in this program?
Yes! International degree-program students who do not have the right to paid employment in Canada can participate because the internships are unpaid.
I am an exchange student. Am I eligible to participate in this program?
No, only Queen's Major/Joint Honours in Political Studies or Politics-stream PPE students are eligible to apply.
Are there any special requirements for specific partner organizations?
Yes. Some organizations require things such as a police record check (organizations that work with sensitive information or vulnerable clients), immunizations (for Covid-19 in some cases, but other immunizations as well for organizations in the health sector), an oath/affirmation of allegiance to the Crown (some government agencies), or specific language competencies (such as organizations that work in French). Some requirements, such as a police record check, may be more challenging to meet for students who have lived abroad because they are required to provide a record check for both Canada and every other country of past residence. Note also that there are some exemptions to oath/affirmation of allegiance requirements for people who are not Canadian citizens or are Indigenous. Please review the partner descriptions carefully, and do not apply for placements with special requirements that you do not believe you will be able to meet or that you disagree with.
Do I have to submit a police record check or similar requirement with my application?
No, do not apply for a police record check or similar special requirement until it is confirmed that you have a placement and you have discussed the requirements with both the Internship Coordinator and the host organization. The only special requirements that a student must meet before applying are things such as competency in a language other than English and immunizations that require significant time between doses such as Covid-19.
Do I have to pay for special requirements such as a police record check?
This depends on the organization, and the cost will vary with the type and number of requirements. As of September 2022, Kingston Police charges $35 for a record check. Our interns do not qualify for the volunteer exemption because they will receive course credit.
How many hours will I work with the partner organization?
90 hours over the 12-week term, maximum 10 hours per week.
How does the classroom component of the course work?
Students will meet with the Internship Coordinator Dr. Stephen Larin at the beginning of term for orientation, then again for a mid-term check-in, and finally at the end of the term for presentations. Dr. Larin will also be available to meet individually and support each student’s success in the program throughout the term.
Should I contact partner organizations about this program?
No, please do not contact our partners about this program. We don’t want to wear out our welcome in the community, and hundreds of student enquiries will do that. If you are interested in learning more about an organization, visit its website and direct any questions about doing an internship with it to the Internship Coordinator, Dr. Stephen Larin (stephen.larin@queensu.ca). Feel free to contact our partners for other reasons, though, especially if they are looking for volunteers!
How do I apply?
Navigate to the ‘Apply’ tab above for instructions on how to apply.
When is the deadline to apply?
The deadline for the Winter 2023 term is October 28.
How are internships allocated?
Students rank their preferred placements when they apply. The 20 applicants with the highest Grade Point Averages across all completed Political Studies courses will be allocated to partners using a lottery–preference system, similar to how 400-level courses are allocated. Navigate to the ‘Apply’ tab above for more information.
When will I be notified of the result of my application?
Early November.
Do I enrol in the course through SOLUS if am accepted?
No. If your are accepted to the program, the Department will add you to POLS 598 and the Internship Coordinator will contact you with detailed information about things such as course expectations, developing a work plan with your placement supervisor, police record checks, etc.
Should I drop one of the Winter courses that I am already registered in if I am accepted to this program?
Students should maintain a normal course load, which means that in most cases they should drop one of the other Winter courses they registered in during the course selection period if they were accepted to POLS 598. However, you should not do this until after you have been accepted to the program, you have met with your placement supervisor and established a work plan, and the Internship Agreement has been signed.
When should I contact my placement supervisor after I have been accepted?
Students should contact their placement supervisor as soon as possible after they have been accepted to the program. This is especially important if the placement has special requirements such as a police record check, which can take time. The Internship Agreement should be completed and signed before the beginning of the Winter term.
What is the Internship Agreement?
The Internship Agreement is a contract between you, the partner organization, and the Department of Political Studies. It establishes the rules that will regulate the internship and the work plan that you will follow, and is signed by all three parties. The Internship Agreement must be signed before the internship can begin.
Can I drop POLS 598 after the Internship Agreement has been signed?
Yes, normal drop regulations apply to POLS 598, but we ask that students only apply to the program if they are sure that they want to do an internship, and that they only apply to work with organizations that genuinely interest them. If you drop the course at the last minute, it could be too late to replace you with another student that term, especially if your placement has special requirements.
When do the placements begin?
In most cases placements will begin in the second week of the Winter term. The first week of the term is in-class orientation.
Why are the internships unpaid?
Many of our partners are small, non-profit organizations that do not have the budget to pay for interns, so there would be fewer placements if the internships were paid. Also, some international students do not have the right to paid employment in Canada but can participate in unpaid internships that are part of their course of study. Students are compensated for their work with experience, the opportunity to develop professional relationships, and course credit.
Who do I contact if I have other questions?
Email the Internship Coordinator Dr. Stephen Larin (stephen.larin@queensu.ca).
How to apply
The deadline for the Winter 2023 term is 28 October 2022.
Before you apply
- Review the overview, partner list, and frequently asked questions carefully to ensure that you fully understand the program and its requirements.
- If you still have questions after reviewing the web page, contact the Internship Coordinator Dr. Stephen Larin (stephen.larin@queensu.ca).
- Calculate your Grade Point Average across all completed Political Studies courses (this is not the same as the term or cumulative GPAs on your transcript; see the instructions below).
- Make a numbered list of your preferred placements in order of preference. Only include placements that genuinely interest you.
- Update your resume and save it in PDF format. Experience does not affect your eligibility, but if you get an internship you will share your resume with your host organization when you first introduce yourself, and it is important to put your best foot forward. We strongly recommend that you book a Resume Review Appointment with Queen’s Career Services to help you do this.
How to calculate your GPA
To calculate your GPA across all completed Political Studies courses:
- Write down the letter grade that you received in each of your completed Political Studies courses.
- Convert those letter grades to Grade Points using the Arts and Science conversion table (an ‘A-‘ becomes a 3.7, for example). Double the number for POLS 110 and POLS 250 because they are 6.0 credit courses.
- Add all of the Grade Points together, then divide the sum by the number of courses plus two (to account for the doubling of POLS 110 and POLS 250). The result is your Political Studies GPA, which will be verified after you apply.
Selection procedure
The 20 applicants with the highest Grade Point Averages across all completed Political Studies courses will be allocated to one of their preferred placements using a lottery–preference system, similar to how 400-level courses are allocated. Each student will be allocated to their highest-available preference in a random order: the first student gets their top preference, the second gets theirs if it is still available, but their second preference if not, etc. If none of the placements that a student has listed are available when it is their turn, that student will be removed from the pool and replaced by the applicant with the next-highest GPA after the initial 20. This procedure will continue until 20 placements have been filled.
Apply
Application for the Winter 2023 term is now closed.