Careers in the federal public service
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Work while studying
The public service offers programs for university and college students who want to work for the public service while still in school. Managers know that students who work under these and other programs can become invaluable members of their team:
FSWEP offers work experience to full-time students related to their field of study and provides them with learning opportunities.
The Co-op/Internship Program offers students with the relevant and practical work experience they need to fulfill the requirements of their academic program. Register in a Co-op/Internship Program with your academic institution and consult the notice boards at your campus career centre or co-op/internship placement office for federal public service placement opportunities.
RAP gives post-secondary students experience in applied research related to the student's current degree program and develops specific knowledge and research skills.
Find out more about student employment programs.
Making it long-term
You can continue working for the public service once you have completed your course of studies, based on your performance and staffing needs.
The process is called "bridging." Students who have been hired into the public service under the FSWEP, RAP or Co-op/Internship programs can be bridged into term or permanent positions. The bridging of students could take place during a period established by the hiring organization. The period will start on the date of graduation.
Marketing yourself
- Start building your professional network during your student work terms. It will be useful during your job search.
- Contact previous managers to tell them you are available and ask them if they are aware of openings in your line of work. Your managers can get details about bridging from their human resources advisor.
- Express your interest and let managers know you are a candidate for bridging. A follow-up phone call is always a good idea.
