Careers with a community, public affairs and policy degree
Studying Community, Public Affairs, and Policy involves exploring policy, advocacy and economic development to drive positive change in communities and institutions, all within a bilingual learning environment.
What can I do with my degree? This program leads to careers in public administration, policy, advocacy, and the non-profit and government sectors.
Skills you'll develop
Your degree builds more than academic knowledge, it shapes the way you think, communicate and collaborate. Throughout your studies, you'll develop key skills for your career, such as:
Functional knowledge:
Critically analyze how policies are created, implemented and how they shape real communities
Communication:
Explain policies and issues in a way that connects with everyday experiences
Management and organization:
Balance academic work and community involvement with strong time management skills
Teamwork:
Work with others by listening actively, embracing diverse viewpoints, and fostering respectful, inclusive dialogue
Critical thinking and problem solving:
Tackle complex social and political issues and develop innovative, community-centered solutions
As a Concordia student, you will develop valuable skills to bring to any career opportunity.
Beyond the classroom: Build your career path
Getting involved outside of the classroom can help you discover your interests, develop new skills and build a network of peers and professionals in your field.
First year
- Attend events organized by SCPA Student’s Association and learn more about activism and community outreach.
- Improve your language fluency in French or English through conversation practice.
- Volunteer with an organization for a cause you care about, such as Share the Warmth.
- Explore research opportunities at the Loyola Sustainability Research Centre.
- Browse the CAPS online job bank for opportunities to gain work experience.
Middle years
- Connect with Career Counselling & Education Transitions to plan your career path.
- Enrich your global perspective by studying abroad for an academic term.
- Help make campus greener at Concordia.
- Get involved with City School or Living Lab to strategize solutions for urban issues.
- Get paid work experience and tackle real-world challenges with District 3’s 12-week summer residency program.
Final year
- Join the community-based internship program to drive meaningful change while building professional skills.
- Prepare for professional presentations with FutureBound’s storytelling and public speaking series.
- Explore leadership opportunities in SCPA Student’s Association.
- Consider joining a professional association such as the Canadian Association of Programs in Public Administration.
- Network with potential employers at recruitment events and career fairs.
Specialize your studies
Minors & elective groups
You can customize your degree by adding a minor or elective group. Popular choices with this program include:
Graduate studies and certifications
Graduate studies can help you specialize in a subject you love, engage in meaningful research or open doors to new career paths. Certifications are a great way to build new skills that complement your degree.
Talk to your professors or a career counsellor at the Student Success Centre to find programs that fit your goals.
Start exploring:
- Universitystudy.ca: A data base of graduate programs in Canada
- Concordia’s School of Graduate Studies: Graduate programs offered at Concordia
- Graduate funding and awards: Scholarships and awards, research and teaching assistantships, and other financial supports for Concordia graduate students
- Concordia Continuing Education: Courses, workshops and programs to advance your career
Career exploration resources
Professional associations
Access professional associations to explore opportunities and expand your network.
Job banks
Career counselling & advising
Want tailored career advice? Book an appointment with one of our career counsellors or career advisors.
Start your job search
Career Advising and Professional Success (CAPS) can help you find opportunities and support you with networking, applications and interviews.
