Experiential learning

PCJ student Rushay Naik with Athens cityscape in the background

The Peace, Conflict and Justice Studies Program strives to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities

All PCJ students must complete Service Learning (PCJ362H1S), and you are also welcome to participate in experiential learning opportunities, such as study abroad programs offered by the Centre for International Experience  or by taking Advanced Service Learning (PCJ499H), which includes internship opportunities.

Service learning 

All PCJ students must complete Service Learning (PCJ362H1S) in the winter semester of their third year of study, as part of their core courses. You will be matched with a client to contribute ideas and practices to the organization learned from the PCJ curriculum, as well as to bring experiences back into the classroom.  Through readings, assignments, and discussion, the course emphasizes how groups work to achieve community goals, how grassroots politics works, the power of social capital, and engage in questions of how such structures are needed to resolve conflict, broker peace, and achieve justice. 

The Trudeau Centre works with a variety of partner institutions and the Centre for Community Partnerships to create new service learning opportunities. While opportunities vary year to year, we strive to place students in organizations that align with their academic interests. We look for organizations that focus on:

  • Accessibility services
  • Conflict resolution training
  • Environment/conservation
  • Health
  • Indigenous rights
  • Legal assistance
  • Minorities and multiculturalism
  • Refugees and immigration
  • Social justice advocacy (religious or secular)
  • Homelessness/employment services
  • Women’s issues
  • Youth issues

Study abroad

Students who study abroad engage in a traditional international exchange through the Centre for International Experience.  With the approval of the program, students can count transfer credits received while on academic exchange towards their PCJ program requirements.

Areas of focus - Victor Dementiev/Unsplash

IS YOUR ORGANIZATION INTERESTED IN PARTNERING WITH US?