Political Science

Political Science

Why study this program?

Political science is the study of power and governance. You will have the opportunity to learn from award-winning teachers and leading international researchers who will challenge you to think broadly about power and the responsibilities of engaged citizenship. Through innovative teaching methods, such as participating in simulations and student-driven research projects, you will gain the necessary knowledge to apply to social problems in Canada and around the world. Courses include democracy, citizenship, and law; municipal, provincial, and federal (Canadian) politics; politics of gender and health; and international politics.

Why take the Honors program?

Are you interested in working closely with faculty mentors in labs and community settings on real-life challenges? Do you want to gain research experience for graduate studies or refine your writing for a professional career? Or, interact with peers who have similar academic interests and passions? Then, the Political Honors program is right for you!

This major can also be taken as part of a Bachelor of Arts degree.


Why take the BA Honors program?

BA Honors programs provide a high degree of specialization in one subject area (or in some cases, two areas combined) and demand a higher standard both for admission and ongoing performance in the program. All Honors programs in the Faculty of Arts require one year of study prior to admission and applicants must present a minimum of (★24) credits to be eligible to apply.


Why study at the University of Alberta?

The Faculty of Arts boasts one of the most diverse Arts programs in Canada, offering top quality educational opportunities that prepare students for successful careers in every sector of society. With over 900 distinct courses in the humanities, social sciences, and fine arts, you will find an academic pathway for you. Your studies will be enhanced by the rich insights that our nationally and internationally recognized faculty members bring to the classroom through unique insights drawn from their research and advancement of human knowledge. Academic excellence, innovative problem-solving, and experiential learning opportunities beyond the classroom, such as Community Service-Learning and Arts Work Experience programs, will give you the tools to thrive in a diverse and increasingly complex workplace.


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POSSIBLE CAREERS
  • Communications
  • International Work
  • Journalist
  • Lawyer
  • Non-governmental Organization (NGO) Worker
  • Policy Analyst
  • Political Scientist
  • Public Relations Representative
  • Public Servant

Libby is a Political Science student and a UAlberta Ambassador. Libby's lifelong interest in social justice issues has led her to get involved with the Make Poverty History student group, the John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights, the Hope Mission, the Boyle-McCauley Health Centre, and Homeless Connect Edmonton.

Program Requirements

Non-Direct Entry

This program does not allow admission directly from high school. See requirements below for more details.

Preprofessional Study Time: 1 year

Minimum of ★24 units of transferable course weight required

Consult the U of A Calendar for fields of study and appropriate first-year course selection.

Admission Selection: For consideration, you need a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 with an average of 3.3 or better in your Honors subject courses; Competitive AGPA varies by field of study from 3.0-3.3.

Deadline

Fall application

Domestic: May 1, 2024
International: May 1, 2024

For a complete listing of application and document deadlines refer to the University Calendar.

View costs for:

The Office of the Registrar administers over $28 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for undergraduate students, as well as financial and loan advising. Additional scholarships are also available for specific faculties and programs.

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