Political Science

Are you interested in exploring the relationships between power, policy, theory, nationalism, international relations, and other crucial facets of contemporary life? The Department of Political Science offers a challenging array of courses and research opportunities. Political Science is much more than the study of governmental structure and process; it encompasses the study of social movements, international development, political violence, law and political philosophy.

Courses are divided into five areas of specialization: International Politics, Comparative Politics, Canadian and Quebec Politics, Public Policy and Public Administration, and Political Theory. honours, major, and minor programs require a spread of choice over at least three of these areas.

• Honours in Political Science — 60 credits
  Designed in particular for students planning to go on to graduate studies. A high level of performance is required to enter and remain in the program. The honours in Political Science has two options. While both options require an honours seminar, the focus of Option A is on extended course work, while Option B requires an honours tutorial and an Honours thesis consisting of a substantive thesis paper written in consultation with a professor.

• Major in Political Science — 42 credits
  The major is one of the most popular choices at Concordia and is designed to provide students with a wide‑ranging background in at least three of the discipline’s areas of specialization. Students also take at least two advanced seminars.

• Minor in Political Science — 24 credits
  A solid introduction to at least three of the areas of specialization listed above.

• Minor in Human Rights Studies — 24 credits
  An interdisciplinary introduction to historical and contemporary issues such as civil rights, crimes against humanity, food security, gender equality, postcolonial experiences, and children’s rights. Courses are offered from the departments of Political Science, Philosophy, Sociology, English, History, Journalism, Religion, Theological Studies, and the School of Community and Public Affairs.

Sample courses include:

Canadian Federalism, Globalization and Sustainable Development, Human Rights and International Justice, Middle East and Global Conflict, Peace Studies and Global Governance, Contemporary Liberalism and its Critics, Public Opinion and Public Policy

Admission Requirements

Political Science (BA - Honours/Major/Minor) requirements: Minimum cut-off averages, admission statistics and program requirements.

See the BA degree description for information on the core and elective requirements. For a complete list of courses: Undergraduate Calendar

Undergraduate admissions guidelines: For information on international admission, required documents, proof of language proficiency, the university admissions timetable, selection and notification process.