Calling all political junkies.
From civil unrest to global trade negotiations, today’s political landscape is complex. Learn how to navigate (and shape) that terrain with a Political Science degree from Waterloo.
Investigate a wide range of topics, or dive deep with a specialization in International Relations. Either way, you’ll hone your analytical, writing, critical thinking, and research skills in a mix of lectures, seminars, and workshops.
You’ll also get an insiders’ perspective, studying with top scholars involved in international policy debates. Gain an understanding of comparative politics, international relations, social sciences, and political theory.
Graduate ready to make a difference. Now more than ever, the world needs savvy movers and shakers equipped to respond to current events.
Faculty:
Faculty of Arts
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Available as a co-op program?
Yes
Available as a regular program?
Yes
Available as a minor?
Yes
Get serious work experience. Explore potential careers while earning your degree. Choose the co-op system and graduate with 20 months of paid experience.
90+ undergraduate courses. Sink your teeth into Chinese foreign policy, women and politics, global security, or dozens of other highly topical courses.
Co-op = relevant paid work experience
In the world's leading co-op program, you'll explore potential careers, learn to interview for jobs, graduate with up to two years of valuable experience — and make money!
Sample co-op job titles
- Junior policy analyst
- Public affairs coordinator
- Information technology communications coordinator
- Economic analyst
- Junior business systems analyst
- Talent acquisition assistant
- Research analyst
Co-op work-study sequence
Starting in second year, you'll normally alternate between school and work every four months, integrating your classroom learning with real-world experience. You can return to the same employer for a couple of work terms to gain greater knowledge and responsibility or work for different employers to get a broad range of experience.
If you choose to do Political Science through Honours Arts and Business, your first work term will be halfway through second year (January to April 2028).
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Off |
| Second | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Third | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fourth | Study | Co-op | Co-op |
| Fifth | Study | Study | - |
or after second year (which can be May to August 2028), if you choose Honours Arts
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Off |
| Second | Study | Study | Co-op |
| Third | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Fourth | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fifth | Co-op | Study | - |
What can you do with a Political Science degree?
Graduates frequently pursue careers in policy and risk analysis, public service, research, marketing, and public relations. They often work in financial institutions, non-profit organizations, law firms, and all levels of government.
Recent graduates
- Lawyer – Legal Aid Ontario
- Executive Director – Ontario Human Rights Commission
- Trade Policy Officer – Government of Alberta
- Research Analyst – Legislative Assembly of Ontario
- Project Control Officer – Loblaw Companies
- Legal Counsel – MADD Canada
- Investment Auditor – CIBC
Learn about the future of careers in arts, humanities, social sciences, languages, and creative arts.
Hear from some recent graduates
Ola Idris (BA '22) looks back on her time as a Political Science student and shares what she learned along the way. Learn about what it's like to be a Political Science graduate.
Admission requirements
Apply to Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business and choose Political Science as your major at the end of first year.
Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including
- Any Grade 12 U English (minimum final grade of at least 70%)
Admission average: Low 80s (co-op and regular)
Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements for Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business.
Get information about programs, applying, and more!
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Questions about courses, programs, requirements, careers?
From the Missing Manual
Check out our Missing Manual website for tips and advice from Waterloo students and staff.
PSCI 226: Modern Political Thought
In this course, you'll learn about the history of political thought from the Enlightenment. Read the works of infamous theorists, debate their merits, delve into the social contract, and develop your own political opinions.
PSCI 389: Global Governance
Global Governance examines how the world is governed and the different players involved with the goal of developing a better world order. Explore overlooked aspects of global governance, world order, and the power dynamics of world control.
PSCI 252: Global South
Gain an understanding of what distinguishes the Global South and open your mind to the perspectives of the people living there. You'll read first-hand accounts, learn about related crises, and discuss opportunities that will positively impact Global South communities.