This course allows students to combine learning about the workings of development non-governmental organizations, through both an unpaid work placement with a non-governmental organization (NGO) involved in international and/or local development, and in-class activities, including bi-weekly seminars and related academic assignments.
Students will become involved in the work of the organization by contributing to the development and implementation of some of the organization’s programs and activities. In addition to the tasks undertaken as part of the job placement portion of the course, students will also meet in seminars and complete coursework aimed at providing the necessary intellectual tools to contextualize the significance of specific development interventions and practices.
Class will meet every two weeks during Fall and Winter. During the Fall students will prepare for their placement. The actual work placement (one day per week, not on the same day as class) will happen during the Winter semester.
How to Apply
Review course prerequisites.
Check your assigned enrollment date and time prior to the Fall term.
Enroll in SOSC 4605 6.00 using the Registration & Enrolment Module.
FAQ
What is a placement?
A placement is unpaid work experience designed to help you develop competencies and skills learned in the classroom with hands-on work experience in an organizational setting. These placements focus on career exploration, employability and professional skill development, with an emphasis on achieving specific course learning outcomes. Since placements are tied to a course, you earn academic credit in lieu of payment. Placements are completed on a part-time basis to ensure you can balance your coursework and other commitments.
What are the prerequisites to enroll in the placement course?
Students must have completed AP/SOSC 1430 9.00 and AP/SOSC 2800 6.00, or permission of the instructor.
What kind of work can I complete during placement?
Direct involvement in the work of an NGO will afford you a unique opportunity to gain practical knowledge of the day-to-day practices of development planning and management. Within these organizations you will attend planning meetings, support research initiatives, contribute to knowledge-mobilization programs and participate in other routine activities.
How many hours do I need to complete for placement?
You will complete 100 hours of placement in the Winter term (around 7-8 hours/week).
How can I find a placement for this course?
You are responsible for securing your own placement with the guidance and assistance of the Course Director. The placement must be professional experience. While some administrative tasks are acceptable, you must also be involved in substantive work related to international issues.
How are placements graded?
Please review the course outline carefully at the start of the term. A significant portion of your grade depends on your performance during the placement, and your supervisor will also be asked to provide an evaluation.
What about insurance?
The Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU) provides Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) coverage (or, in some instances, other insurance coverage) for Ontario post-secondary students who are completing an unpaid placement as a part of their course/program.
Note
Please note that the placement cannot begin until an Agreement between York University and the Placement Organization is signed. The EE Office will work with your Course Director to facilitate this process.
Questions?
Please email the Experiential Education (EE) team at eelaps@yorku.ca for more information.