The Department of Public and Community Service Studies offers introductory courses open to all students at Providence College and major and minor courses that cover central themes and issues in democratic community, service, and social justice. With rare exception, each of these courses requires the students to participate in 2 - 4 hours per week of community service.

The academic program is built on the pedagogical model of service learning, and nearly all of the courses that students take in the major integrate service into the course in an intentional way.  The service is approached much like a "text" in the course. That is, it forms the basis for a significant part of the discussion and reflection in the course. Through the courses in the Department of Public and Community Service Studies, students engage in a diverse range of service work including direct service, community organizing, community development, and public policy.