Calling all political junkies
From threats to democracy 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, such as international security, local government, public policy, Canadian constitutional law, political theory, or American or Chinese politics.
You'll get an insider's perspective, studying with top scholars involved in national and global debates. Gain an understanding of comparative politics, international relations, public policy, and Canadian and comparative politics.
Graduate ready to make a difference. Now more than ever, the world needs people with the policy knowledge and critical skills necessary to address 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.
Option one: If you choose to study Political Science through Honours Arts and Business, your first work term will be in the winter term of second year.
| 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 | - |
Option two: Your first work term will be in the spring term after second year, 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 | - |
Admission requirements
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: High 70s
Not studying in Ontario?
Search our admission requirements for Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business.
How to apply
Apply to Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business and choose Political Science as your major at the end of first year.
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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 famous theorists, debate their merits, delve into the social contract, and develop your own political opinions.
PSCI 389: Global Governance
Examine how the world is governed and the different players involved with developing a better world order. Explore overlooked aspects of global governance, world order, and the power dynamics of world control.
PSCI 252: Global South
Learn what distinguishes the Global South and discover the perspectives of the people living there. Read first-hand accounts, learn about related crises, and discuss opportunities that will positively impact Global South communities.