Plan Ahead for Going on Exchange

An exchange is an amazing opportunity to further develop the knowledge you have gained through your studies.  The Queen's International Program Office coordinates exchanges and study abroad experiences predominantly for undergraduate students in the Faculty of Arts and Science.

Students going on exchange in previous years have sometimes chosen institutions in highly developed locations. While we do not have a firm rule that DEVS student exchanges need to be in the Global South, we strongly encourage students to consider doing their exchanges in environments where the living experience itself is part of learning about development. Students will find that this will help to reinforce many of the key development theories learned in class.

For DEVS students considering an exchange in third year, very careful academic planning is imperative. We have had instances in the past where students did not plan their DEVS core and option courses meticulously and as a result had to return to campus for an additional term after their fourth year.

In the past, some students going on exchange have found it particularly challenging to get enough third year DEVS and DEVS eligible courses completed. Third year courses taken abroad may not necessarily transfer as a third year course at Queen's and have sometimes been assessed as 200 level courses.

It is strongly recommended that students map out their degree plan requirements with the assistance from the DEVS Academic Programs Assistant.  To make an appointment, please send an email to  devs.student@queensu.ca or drop by the DEVS Main Office located in room B411 Mackintosh-Corry Hall.