Political Science BA
Explore the forces of power, authority and governance that shape our world
Gain an in-depth understanding of the power of politics and its ability to influence the lives of individuals, families and communities.
Identify, analyze and evaluate the political issues that confront our world today. Put your skills and knowledge into action through experiential learning activities including mock conferences, simulations and a variety of co-op options that allow you to gain critical real-world experience.
The political science program offers a wide-range of classes in five major areas: Political Thought; Canadian Politics; Public Policy, Governance and Law; Comparative Politics; and International Relations and Global Studies.
Program Completion Requirements
Sample Courses
First level courses in the program provide a solid base of understanding of the key issues and debates in political science. Students are then introduced to the five fields of study within the program. Future courses can be chosen to pursue one of these areas of interest.
Students can obtain a three-year general bachelor of arts with a concentration in political science or a four-year honours bachelor of arts in political science.
- Conflict and Conflict Resolution
- Corruption, Scandal and Political Ethics
- Environmental Politics and Governance
- Gender and Politics
- Human Rights, Ethics and Development
- The Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Where Can Political Science Take You?
The skills you develop will equip you for a wide variety of careers and are also the perfect prerequisite for our master of arts program. These are just some of the career paths that our political science alumni have taken:
Private Sector
- Community Organization
- Consulting
- Government Relations
- Law Clerk
- Lawyer
- Public Relations and Communications Specialist
Public Sector
- City Councillor
- Foreign Service Officer
- Human Rights Officer
- Immigration and Revenue Officer
- Policy Advisor
- Political Staffer
- Public Administrator
- Public Opinion Analyst
- Teacher
"This program helped shape the way I view the world and how I approach problems using the communication and critical thinking skills I have learned from studying political science."
Choose a Co-op option for real-world experience
The co-op program gives you the opportunity to gain relevant work experience, build professional networks and develop essential interpersonal skills needed to succeed in the workplace, all while getting paid and earning your university degree.
The political science co-op program includes three co-op work terms in addition to eight academic semesters, for a total of four and a half years of study at the University of Guelph.
Co-op Program Completion Requirements
Meet Your Professor
Benefit from the expertise and individual attention of your instructors. The Department of Political Science faculty is comprised of acclaimed researchers and award-winning teachers who pride themselves on being available to you.
Take the next step
Start the application process and explore options for funding your education.