Directed Field Studies

Real world experiences

The Directed Field Studies (DFS) component is one of the strengths of the applied degree program in Policy Studies. The DFS will be an exciting and challenging part of your education. The two employer-paid, four-month work terms give you an opportunity to gain experience, make contacts and apply classroom theory on the job.

Getting the right opportunity

Career Services works closely with you and employers to find just the right DFS placement and monitor your work experience. To further benefit from this experience, you will also complete assignments and reports to fulfill the academic requirements of these 15-credit DFS courses.

What employers are saying

“For the past two years, the Calgary Health Region has hired Mount Royal students for their DFS placements. The students bring the conceptual and critical skills necessary for sound policy development. They have made a significant contribution toward the achievement of our departmental goal of producing high quality, clear, consistent organizational policies for our 25,000 employees, health professionals, volunteers and contracted service providers. We look forward to our continued association with the Policy Studies program.”

— Linda Ostergard, DFS employer
Regional Policy Division, Calgary Health Region

“The Mount Royal student we hired was a great addition to our team. She was knowledgeable, professional, hard working and contributed well to the success of several important projects. It has been a pleasure working with her.”

— Elizabeth Dewart,
manager corporate initiatives, City of Calgary

“Our office hires Mount Royal students as constituency assistants for the summer. The Mount Royal students who have worked at our office are of excellent quality. One went on to graduate from Oxford University and is now working for the Parliament in London. They have all turned out to be dedicated professionals.”

— Wayne Cao,
MLA Calgary Fort

If you are a student and would like to learn more about directed field studies in the Policy Studies program, visit Career Services for Students.

If you are an employer considering hiring a student for a paid work term, visit Career Services for Employers for more information.