
Welcome, Students!
At MRU, Community Service Learning (CSL) is an impactful teaching method that allows students to make meaningful contributions to local and global communities through hands-on experiences.
CSL combines academic knowledge, immersive community engagement, and reflective practices to explore the connections between classroom learning and community needs.
We value student participation in CSL courses at Mount Royal University, recognizing it with the CSL Citation, which appears on your transcript. To earn this Citation, you must complete three designated courses (totalling at least nine credits) that involve a minimum of 20 hours of community service, with CSL contributing at least 15% to your overall grade.
If you've completed three designated courses and want it recognized on your transcript, please complete the CSL Citation Form found here.
Testimonials
❝ I was surprised by my project. Sometimes you get so caught up in school and work that you put yourself in a box and forget about all the opportunities. Working with my partner made me rethink my goals after graduation. It’s nice to see all those options through CSL.❞
Fourth-year Broadcasting student
❝ Being exposed to real work experiences through CSL before entering the workplace is helpful. It prepares you and helps you notice what works—like ‘I liked this,’ or ‘I don’t think I’ll do that again.’ It teaches you about your work style and gives you experience before taking on something bigger.❞
Third-year Education student
❝I was excited to do CSL because we practiced skills we don’t usually learn in school. I see the value of working in interdisciplinary teams. Not everyone gets that experience, and it’s a great skill to have. Working directly with a community partner also adds value to our portfolio by showing we’ve already worked with clients and gained skills that other programs might not offer.❞
Fourth-year Information Design student
Frequently Asked Questions
To find CSL-designated courses, consult the current academic calendar, which includes a section highlighting available CSL courses. However, CSL designation may vary by section, so contact the course instructor to confirm whether it includes a CSL component.
To earn a CSL Citation, you must complete at least three courses that include CSL components and are designated as such in the academic calendar. Once you have fulfilled these requirements, submit the CSL Citation Form to have the citation reflected on your academic transcript upon graduation.
CSL helps students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, improving their practical skills like communication and problem-solving. It also fosters critical thinking and social responsibility, connects students with professionals, and enhances their resumes for future careers.