Overview
“POLS 598: Internship in Political Studies” is the Department's experiential learning program. 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 2025 term is now closed. Application for the 2025–26 academic year will open in May 2025 after all of that year's partners are confirmed, with a deadline in late June. Set a reminder for yourself to check back at that time.
More questions?
Navigate to the 'FAQ' tab above for answers to frequently asked questions.
Partners
This is an alphabetical list of the 34 placements offered by our 21 partners. Please review it carefully before applying, and note any special requirements such as a police record check. The list was last updated on 5 June 2024, and may be updated again before the 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.
| Partners |
|---|
Agnes Etherington Art Centre (Queen’s University)DescriptionSituated on Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee territories, Agnes is a curatorially-driven, research-intensive professional art centre proudly serving a dual mandate as a leading, internationally recognized public art gallery and active pedagogical resource at Queen’s. By commissioning, researching, collecting and stewarding works of art, and by exhibiting and interpreting visual culture through an intersectional lens, Agnes creates opportunities for participation and exchange across communities, cultures, histories and geographies. Websitehttps://agnes.queensu.ca/InternshipAgnes is poised to play a sector-leading role in Canada’s cultural futurities through ongoing experimentation, risk-taking, re/evaluation and our commitments to curatorial innovation—approaching even our historical holdings through a sense of dialectic contemporaneity. As a category A museum with street cred, we exemplify how museums of the past can inhabit the future; we advance social justice as we enact the work of decolonization to paradigmatically shift contemporary museology as a core institutional practice. We embrace our complexity, transforming the cultural milieu of our locality—the first capital of Canada— Kingston. Agnes has an unprecedented opportunity to reimagine the social, civic and pedagogical role of the 21st-century museum in tandem with a community-engaged architectural design process, ensuring museums of Canada’s cultural future no longer look like those of Canada’s colonial past. We are building the apparatus—and the new architectures—to do this in Agnes Reimagined, our new facility planned for 2026. These values define our work:
Many of our projects are relevant to the Internship in Political Studies program and we will work with the intern to find the right fit. Special RequirementsPolice or vulnerable sector check may be required depending on the intern’s project. |
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. The intern's tasks and project(s) will be determined based on the needs of the organization during the placement period. 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. |
Climate Leadership (City of Kingston)DescriptionThe City of Kingston’s Climate Leadership Division leads and supports climate actions identified by Council in its Strategic Plan under the Pillar “Lead Environmental Stewardship and Climate Action. Staff’s role is to facilitate projects and change throughout the community and within the organization in the implementation of the City of Kingston’s Climate Leadership Plan. Websitehttps://www.cityofkingston.ca/city-hallInternshipThe Climate Leadership intern would provide support to various Climate Leadership Division initiatives, which could include conducting a scan of environmental research and best practices, assisting with draft communications, reviewing documents, and collaborating with various departments to provide support to projects contained within the Strategic Plan under the pillar “Lead Environmental Stewardship and Climate Action”. This could include research in matters such as (for example): exploring options for a bike sharing program; exploring opportunities to support the community’s transition to alternative energy; education program on water conservation in the community and the potential to achieve Nature Canada’s Bird Friendly Certification. 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.caInternshipThis 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 Foundation for Kingston & AreaDescriptionEstablished in 1995, CFKA is a local registered charitable public foundation with a mandate to connect the generosity of donors in the Kingston region with local charities addressing urgent and emerging community needs. Its endowment fund model allows it to invest in the community in perpetuity across our funding priorities: Arts & Culture, Children’s Mental Health, Community Development, Education & Literacy, Environment, Health & Social Services, Heritage Preservation, Recreation, and Youth. With over $33.5 million in invested funds held in trust, the Foundation has granted over $14 million to date to over 360 charities. Its Community Grants Program has funded hundreds of local projects that have resulted in meaningful and lasting impact, both small and large, in our community. Websitehttps://cfka.org/InternshipThe intern will have the opportunity to support CFKA staff with day-to-day administration and coordination of special projects. The intern will gain an understanding of the core operations and functional role of a Canadian charitable organization, including advancement services, fundraising, communications, donor relations, and finance & operations. They may have the opportunity to work on some or all the following activities:
|
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. Special RequirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
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-hallInternshipThe Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) office intern would provide support to various EDI initiatives, which could include conducting environmental scan and research of best practices, assisting with draft communications, reviewing documents, and collaborating with various departments to provide support to projects and ensure an EDI lens is applied to corporate programs, projects and initiatives that support organizational goals and strategic priorities. Candidates must have a basic understanding of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, understanding of working with community groups, and lived experience as a member of Black, Indigenous, or other racialized communities is an asset. Special RequirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Fort Henry Guard Club of CanadaDescriptionLocated in Kingston at the confluence of the St Lawrence River, Rideau Canal system, and Lake Ontario, Fort Henry is one of Canada’s most recognizable tourist destinations. Since its opening as a “living history” museum in 1938, Fort Henry has been home to the world-famous Fort Henry Guard, a civilian reenactment unit. The Fort Henry Guard Club of Canada is a not-for profit organization that connects Guard alumni from across the world and advocates for the continuation and development of the Fort Henry Guard. Websitehttps://www.forthenryguardclub.ca/InternshipThe Fort Henry Guard Club of Canada’s intern will be fully integrated into the governance and operations of this not-for-profit organization over the course of the term, including strategic management, fundraising, event-planning, and lobbying strategy. The intern will therefore gain practical experience in a suite of skills in high demand in the not-for-profit and political consulting sectors. Specifically, the intern will support the monitoring of the organization’s multi-year strategic plan through the translation of multi-year priorities to individual strategic initiatives. The intern will work with our experienced fundraising team to explore donor development, and assist in the development of alumni engagement events. The intern will also collaborate with our Board of Directors to develop a lobbying strategy that engages a variety of government stakeholders. In addition to the practical skills that will be transferrable to a variety of not-for-profit sector and consulting workplaces (partisan and nonpartisan), the intern will develop a strong knowledge of Fort Henry, as well as the tourism sector in Kingston and Ontario. |
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.
|
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 administrative, fund development and program facilitation activities under the supervision of the Girls Inc. Project Manager. This will include assistance with grant writing, social media planning and management, research surrounding the issues affecting girls, women and gender-impacted individuals, as well as fund development and marketing activities. A portion of this internship will also include working directly with school-age program participants during program hours to observe and participate in Girls Inc. programming. Special RequirementsPolice record and vulnerable sector checks for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Housing and Social Services (City of Kingston)DescriptionThe 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 providing support to the newly formed Community Development and Wellbeing Group on the facilitation and implementation of the community safety and wellbeing plan. Websitehttps://www.cityofkingston.ca/city-hallInternshipAn 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 a poverty topic of their choosing, to learn 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 organisation 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. |
KEYS Newcomer ServicesDescriptionDescription KEYS is the largest provider of comprehensive employment services in Kingston and its surrounding region and the largest provider of services to newcomers in the region. Founded in 1983, KEYS is a registered charity. It helps change lives. It is committed to supporting members of our community through compassionate action and mutual respect. It delivers programs and services to three primary populations in Kingston:
Websitehttps://keys.ca/newcomer-services-en/InternshipInterns in Political Studies at KEYS Newcomer Services can expect to gain real-life experience in the field of newcomer services. Students will have the opportunity to complete a project related to migration and/or migrants in Kingston. Projects could cover topics such as anti-racism in schools or in the workplace, community supports for newcomer integration, international student issues, or another relevant topic. Interns will participate actively in the day-to-day activities of KEYS staff which will provide meaningful context to their project and studies more broadly. Specific hours of work and the project to be completed will be determined by KEYS in consultation with the intern themselves. Special requirementsVulnerable sector check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
Kingston Arts CouncilDescriptionThe Kingston Arts Council (KAC) is the region’s primary resource for arts information and support. Through communications, programming, and advocacy, the KAC promotes the creation, development, and appreciation of the arts in Katarokwi/Kingston and supports artistic growth and engagement for arts organizations and artists at all levels of their careers. The KAC also administers key funding programs, the City of Kingston Arts Fund (CKAF) and the Nan Yeoman’s Grant for Artistic Development. Websitehttps://www.artskingston.ca/InternshipAn internship at the KAC will provide the unique opportunity to learn about the arts sector in Katarokwi/Kingston from the perspective of the region’s primary arts service organization. The KAC provides direct services to local artists and arts organizations while also maintaining a close working relationship and Service Level Agreement with the municipality. The KAC’s mission is to provide strategic leadership and services for the arts – as funder, leader, advocate, resource, and facilitator of opportunities – in Kingston and the surrounding area. KAC’s key activities include professional development programming, grants administration, resource sharing, and advocacy at the local and provincial level. The KAC intern would have the opportunity to participate in the regular operations of the organization and/or develop a focused project. Possible areas of engagement include: CKAF Grants outreach and administrative support, advocacy, impact evaluation, funding research, programming support, attending Committee meetings, and community outreach. |
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/InternshipAn internship with Loving Spoonful will be dynamic, yet meaningful, and includes a range of potential activities. The placement will be connected to the programs we implement or the policies which we support. Our new strategic focus on food sovereignty will serve as a guiding principle in any of the placement activities chosen. Activities may include research, reviewing/writing policy and procedures; supporting communications; fund development, and/or community engagement related to a range of initiatives. Students will have the opportunity to develop skills in research, policy writing, engagement, and knowledge mobilization, to name a few. Special requirementsPolice record check for Canada and all other countries of prior residence. |
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 data analysis culminating in a policy brief that will be presented to the Office of the City Clerk managerial team. The topic of the policy brief is to be determined but may involve civic engagement or a by-law/policy related to municipal governance. To complete this work the intern will review developments in legislation, governmental policies, procedures, or trends, that impact the Corporation. The intern will be required to maintain awareness of local municipal issues, 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, and City policies and procedures. A basic understanding of local government and its roles and responsibilities is considered an asset. 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. |
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 review of the City’s Official Plan, scheduled to commence in the fall of 2023. 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, 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. |
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. There are no exceptions. For other internship opportunities, please consult the Queen's Career Services website.
When does the program run?
POLS 598 is a course that will be part of its participants' regular course load. The next iteration is in the Winter 2025 term.
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 34 placements across 21 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.
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 and some students who are taking a reduced course load) 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 May 2024, Kingston Police charges $40 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 twice at the beginning of term for mandatory 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?
Application for the 2025–26 academic year will open in May 2025 after all of that year's partners are confirmed, with a deadline in late June. Set a reminder for yourself to check back at that time.
How are internships allocated?
Students rank their preferred placements when they apply. The 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, until either all of the placements are filled or there are no more applicants who meet the minimum requirements. Navigate to the ‘Apply’ tab above for more information.
When will I be notified of the result of my application?
Successful applicants will be notified within a week of the deadline. If a successful applicant declines the placement that they have been assigned, that person will be removed from the pool and the next person in the GPA ranking will be offered their highest-ranked preference that is still available. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified after all placements have been confirmed.
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.
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, and the cohort will meet for mandatory in-class orientation during the first two weeks of the term.
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
Application for the 2025–26 academic year will open in May 2025 after all of that year's partners are confirmed, with a deadline in late June. Set a reminder for yourself to check back at that time.
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. Do not include courses from other departments, even if they qualify as a substitute.
- 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 because it is a full-year 6.0 credit course, and do the same for POLS 250 if you took it as a full-year course (this applies to students who took POLS 250 before the 2022–23 academic year).
- Add all of the Grade Points together, then divide the sum by the number of courses plus one (to account for the doubling of POLS 110; plus two if you took POLS 250 as a full-year course). Round the number to two decimal points. This is your Political Studies GPA, which will be verified after you apply.
Selection procedure
The 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. This procedure will continue until either all of the placements have been filled or no more applicants meet the minimum requirements.