Political Science - Master of Arts (MA)

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Foster a deeper understanding of politics across the world at multiple scales (domestic, regional and global) while also developing the analytical and professional skills needed for success in the job market with the Master of Arts in Political Science.  

In this innovative and research-focused program, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside internationally and nationally renowned scholars in political science, with training in the major fields of the discipline including Canadian politics, international relations, and many more captivating areas of research. Choose between either the thesis study option or the master’s research paper study option, and get hands-on, real-world experience with the option of co-op after you begin the program.  

You’ll be prepared for further study at the PhD level or to pursue a successful career in the private, public, or non-profit sectors with roles like political consultant, international relations officer, and political risk analyst.

Program overview

Department/School: Political Science
Faculty: Faculty of Arts
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December)
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Master's, Research
Length of program: 12 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Thesis, Master's Research Paper

Application deadlines

  • Domestic applicants: May 1 (for admission in September)**
  • International applicants: February 1

Key contacts

Darshani Madumali
darshani.madumali@uwaterloo.ca

Admission limitations

Due to funding restrictions, the Faculty of Arts is currently limiting the number of international students we can admit. Please contact the department's Associate Chair, Graduate Studies prior to applying to discuss your interest in this program.

Supervisors

Admission requirements

  • An Honours Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Political Science with at least a 78% overall standing.
  • Statement of Research.
  • Students with an Honours BA in a related discipline will be considered for admission but may be required to complete further work in Political Science before proceeding. Students with a General Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science may be admitted to a qualifying program, and then apply for admission to the Master of Arts (MA) program after completion of that program.
  • Probationary students admitted to the program must achieve at least 75% in 2 predetermined courses in order to continue in the Winter term. Normally a student will not continue on probationary status for more than two terms.
  • Transitional students admitted are normally required to complete additional predetermined undergraduate or graduate courses and achieve at least a 75% average.

Degree requirements

  • Review the degree requirements on the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree

Application materials

  • Resume
  • Supplementary information form (SIF)
    • The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
  • Transcript(s)
  • Writing sample
  • References
    • Three references are required, normally from academic sources
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5).

Tuition and fees