Philosophy and Political Science

The University of British Columbia's Philosophy and Political Science program offers students an in-depth exploration of fundamental questions about human existence, ethical considerations, governance, and the political structures that shape societies worldwide. This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous coursework and analytical thinking, enabling students to develop a comprehensive understanding of philosophical theories, political ideologies, and their practical applications. Throughout the program, students engage with classic and contemporary texts, participate in critical debates, and analyze real-world political issues, fostering skills in logical reasoning, effective communication, and ethical decision-making. The curriculum includes a wide range of courses such as Ethics, Political Theory, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Logic, and Modern Philosophy, among others. Students are encouraged to think critically about issues like justice, human rights, democracy, and environmental sustainability, preparing them for careers in public policy, government, law, journalism, academia, and non-profit organizations. The program emphasizes experiential learning through seminars, research projects, and internships, providing practical exposure to political processes and philosophical inquiry. Faculty members are leading experts in their fields, guiding students in both theoretical understanding and applied research. Graduates of the Philosophy and Political Science program will emerge as thoughtful, informed, and engaged citizens equipped to contribute meaningfully to societal development and policy formulation. With a strong foundation in analytical abilities and ethical considerations, students are well-prepared to pursue further studies or enter diverse professional paths that require critical thinking and informed judgment.

The Bachelor of Arts program in Philosophy and Political Science at The University of British Columbia offers students a comprehensive interdisciplinary education designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of fundamental issues in both philosophy and political science. This program aims to prepare students for a variety of careers by fostering the ability to analyze complex ideas, engage with ethical questions, and understand political systems and theories.

The Philosophy component provides students with a solid foundation in essential areas such as ethics, epistemology, metaphysics, logic, and the history of philosophy. Students explore the works of influential philosophers from ancient times to contemporary thinkers, engaging in rigorous debates and developing their own philosophical arguments. Courses aim to cultivate critical thinking and the capacity for precise reasoning, which are valuable skills across diverse professional fields.

The Political Science component introduces students to the core principles of political theories, institutions, policies, and international relations. It covers topics such as democracy, political ideologies, governance, human rights, and global politics. Students learn to analyze political systems, evaluate policy impacts, and understand the dynamics of power and authority in different contexts. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in research, policy analysis, and effective communication.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to think critically about pressing societal issues, develop ethical perspectives, and understand the interconnectedness of philosophical ideas and political realities. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with opportunities for practical application, including discussions, debates, and research projects.

The program also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to draw connections between philosophical concepts and political structures. This broad perspective equips graduates to pursue careers in law, public administration, journalism, academia, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies.

Students can choose from a variety of elective courses, enabling specialization in particular areas such as environmental ethics, human rights, political philosophy, or public policy. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

By the end of their studies, graduates will have developed a well-rounded understanding of philosophical reasoning and political analysis, preparing them for diverse professional paths or further academic study. The University of British Columbia's Philosophy and Political Science program aims to produce insightful, ethically aware, and socially responsible graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to society.

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Political Science at the University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of philosophical doctrines and political systems. Students are required to complete a minimum of 120 credits over the course of their degree, typically achieved over four years of full-time study. The program is structured to include both foundational and advanced coursework in philosophy and political science, encouraging students to explore the theoretical underpinnings and real-world applications of their studies.

In Philosophy, students take foundational courses such as Introduction to Philosophy, Logic, Ethics, and History of Philosophy. These courses are aimed at developing skills in critical analysis, reasoning, and ethical reflection. Advanced courses may include Political Philosophy, Philosophy of Science, and Contemporary Ethical Issues, which enable students to examine complex philosophical questions and their implications in contemporary society.

In Political Science, students engage with core topics including Canadian Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory. These courses provide insights into governmental structures, policy analysis, and the dynamics of global politics. Students are also encouraged to participate in seminars, research projects, and internships to gain practical experience and deepen their understanding of political processes.

The program includes a set of elective courses that allow students to tailor their education according to personal interests and career goals. Additionally, students are required to complete a capstone project or thesis in their final year, which involves independent research and critical analysis, under faculty supervision.

To promote a well-rounded education, students must also fulfill university-wide general education requirements, which include courses in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Language proficiency and skills in research methodologies are also emphasized throughout the curriculum.

Admission to the program generally requires completion of secondary school, with competitive applicants demonstrating strong academic records and interest in the disciplines. Students are encouraged to engage actively in discussions, extracurricular activities, and community projects related to philosophy and politics, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of the subjects.

Overall, the combined Philosophy and Political Science program at UBC aims to produce graduates capable of critical thought, ethical consideration, and informed participation in civic and professional contexts. The curriculum is designed to balance theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students for careers in law, public policy, education, research, and other fields requiring analytical and ethical expertise.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of British Columbia offers several financing options for students enrolled in Philosophy and Political Science programs. Undergraduate students can access various scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs designed to support their academic journey. The UBC Entrance Scholarships are available to incoming students based on academic excellence, leadership, and involvement in extracurricular activities. There are also faculty-specific awards for students demonstrating outstanding promise in Philosophy and Political Science, which are awarded annually and can significantly offset tuition costs. Additionally, students may be eligible for provincial government aid programs, such as the British Columbia Student Assistance Program (BCSAP), which offers loans and grants to help cover educational and living expenses.

Work-study opportunities are available on campus, allowing students to gain valuable work experience while earning income to support their studies. Many students also opt for part-time employment off-campus, facilitated by UBC's career services that provide job placement support. Private scholarships from external organizations and foundations are another viable source of funding. International students, in addition to UBC awards, may qualify for international student scholarships and bursaries, which can help offset the higher cost of tuition.

The university's Financial Aid Office provides detailed guidance on applying for financial support, including deadlines, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. It is recommended that students complete the Federal and Provincial financial aid applications early to maximize their funding opportunities. UBC also offers emergency bursaries and short-term loans for students facing unexpected financial difficulties. In recent years, tuition fees for undergraduate programs in Philosophy and Political Science have been subject to annual increases; however, financial aid options are adjusted accordingly to assist students in managing these costs. Overall, UBC's comprehensive suite of financial support programs aims to make higher education accessible and affordable for students pursuing Philosophy and Political Science degrees.

The University of British Columbia in Vancouver offers a comprehensive undergraduate program in Philosophy and Political Science that aims to provide students with a broad understanding of fundamental questions about human existence, ethical principles, political systems, and governance. This interdisciplinary degree combines the analytical frameworks and methodological approaches of both disciplines to foster critical thinking, informed decision-making, and effective communication skills. The program's curriculum covers a wide range of core topics, including ethical theories, political philosophy, comparative politics, international relations, logic, epistemology, and social justice. Students have the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives and develop their ability to analyze complex societal issues through rigorous academic inquiry.

Throughout their studies, students can participate in various research projects, seminars, and discussions designed to deepen their understanding of philosophical concepts and political theories. The program encourages active learning through debates, case studies, and experiential activities that prepare graduates for careers in academia, public service, law, journalism, policy analysis, or international organizations. The Faculty of Arts at UBC provides a dynamic academic environment with distinguished faculty members who are experts in their fields, offering mentorship and guidance to aspiring scholars. Additionally, students can benefit from extracurricular activities such as student organizations, conferences, and internships, which enhance their educational experience and professional development.

The interdisciplinary nature of this program allows students to tailor their coursework according to personal interests and career goals, with options to specialize in areas such as ethics, political theory, or global politics. The program also emphasizes the importance of collaborative learning and critical reflection, preparing graduates to contribute thoughtfully to societal debates and policy-making processes. With its strong emphasis on analytical skills and ethical reasoning, the Philosophy and Political Science degree from UBC Vancouver strives to produce well-rounded individuals capable of addressing the complex challenges of contemporary society.