Political Science

Political Science at The University of British Columbia - Vancouver offers a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum designed to engage students with the fundamental questions of governance, policy-making, and the distribution of power in both national and international contexts. This program provides students with a solid foundation in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and Canadian politics, equipping them with critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of political processes and institutions. Students will have opportunities to explore various perspectives on political issues, analyze current events, and develop informed opinions on global and domestic affairs.

Throughout their studies, students can participate in a variety of research projects, internships, and experiential learning activities that enhance their understanding of real-world political systems. The program emphasizes the importance of innovative thinking and effective communication, preparing graduates for careers in government, international organizations, policy analysis, journalism, graduate studies, and other fields requiring a nuanced understanding of political dynamics. The Department of Political Science at UBC Vancouver is renowned for its expert faculty, interdisciplinary approach, and vibrant academic community, providing an enriching environment for scholarly inquiry and professional development.

The program offers both Bachelor of Arts and honours degrees, with flexible specializations allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Students also benefit from access to numerous academic resources, seminars, conferences, and exchanges that broaden their global perspective. By the end of the program, graduates will have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to critically assess political issues, contribute thoughtfully to public debates, and pursue further academic or professional opportunities in the diverse field of political science.

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at The University of British Columbia - Vancouver offers students a comprehensive exploration of political systems, theories, and practices both in Canada and around the world. The program is designed to develop students' critical thinking, analytical skills, and understanding of governmental, political, and policy processes. Throughout the degree, students engage with a diverse range of topics, including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and Canadian politics, enabling them to grasp the complexities of governance, power, and diplomacy. The curriculum combines foundational courses with specialized electives, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals. In addition to coursework, students have opportunities for internships, research projects, and participation in debates or seminars that enhance practical understanding and professional readiness. Faculty members are distinguished scholars and practitioners committed to academic excellence and mentorship, fostering an intellectually stimulating environment. The program prepares graduates for careers in government, international organizations, non-profit sectors, journalism, or for further study in graduate or professional schools. Emphasizing critical analysis and ethical reasoning, the program also encourages students to consider the social and global responsibilities of political actors. Engaging learning methods, complemented by access to modern research facilities and libraries, support student success. The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at UBC Vancouver is dedicated to cultivating informed, engaged, and responsible citizens equipped to contribute meaningfully to society and the global community.

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at The University of British Columbia – Vancouver requires students to complete a total of 120 credits to earn the degree. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, institutions, and policies both in Canada and internationally. Students must choose a variety of courses that cover core areas including political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and Canadian politics. The curriculum emphasizes acquiring analytical skills, critical thinking, and an understanding of governmental structures and political behavior.

Students are typically expected to complete foundational courses such as Introduction to Political Science, Research Methods, and Quantitative Data Analysis early in their studies. To deepen their knowledge, students can select from a range of elective courses in areas like Global Politics, Public Policy, Human Rights, and Environmental Politics. The program encourages engagement through participation in seminars, discussions, and research projects, which help students develop their arguments and understanding of complex political issues.

In addition, students are required to complete a certain number of upper-division courses, which involve more intensive study and specialization. The program also offers opportunities for experiential learning, such as internships, co-op placements, or study abroad programs, which provide practical experience and global perspectives. Completing a capstone project or thesis is often recommended or required, allowing students to integrate and demonstrate their knowledge in a focused research paper.

The program also emphasizes the development of communication skills, critical analysis, and ethical reasoning, preparing graduates for careers in government, law, journalism, international organizations, or further academic study. Students should consult the university’s official course catalog and academic advisors to plan their course selections and meet specific graduation requirements, including maintaining satisfactory academic standing throughout their studies.

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.

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The financing of the Political Science program at The University of British Columbia (UBC) Vancouver is primarily supported through a combination of government funding, tuition fees, scholarships, awards, and financial aid options. Undergraduate students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science are required to pay tuition fees that vary depending on their residence status, with Canadian citizens and permanent residents benefiting from lower rates compared to international students. The exact tuition fees are updated annually and can be found on the official UBC website; typically, domestic students pay around CAD 5,000 to CAD 7,000 per year, while international students pay approximately CAD 39,000 per year.

In addition to tuition, students may incur costs related to books, supplies, and living expenses, which are crucial factors to consider when planning their finances for the duration of the program. UBC offers a comprehensive financial aid package to support eligible students through government student loan programs, bursaries, and work-study opportunities that enable students to work part-time on or off campus, providing additional income to finance their studies.

Numerous scholarships and awards are available to Political Science students based on academic merit, leadership, and financial need. These include entrance scholarships for new students, departmental awards for continuing students, and specialized awards focused on particular fields within political science or diverse student groups. Prospective students are encouraged to explore external funding options such as government grants and private sponsorships to further ease the financial burden.

UBC also participates in provincial and federal loan programs, which can provide significant financial assistance for students demonstrating need. For Canadian residents, the British Columbia Student Assistance Program (BCSAP) offers loan and grant options that help cover tuition and living expenses. International students, while ineligible for some national aid programs, are encouraged to seek external scholarships, sponsorships, and private funding sources. Financial counseling and planning services are available at UBC’s Student Financial Support Office to assist students in managing their finances effectively throughout their academic journey. Overall, the financial structure of the Political Science program at UBC aims to make higher education accessible to a diverse student body through a robust support system combining institutional, governmental, and private funding sources.

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at The University of British Columbia - Vancouver offers students a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and institutions. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep comprehension of political processes both domestically and internationally. Students study a variety of topics including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and Canadian politics. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for diverse career paths in government, non-governmental organizations, journalism, policy analysis, and international affairs.

The program typically requires students to complete a set number of core courses, electives within the discipline, and may include opportunities for honours, minors, or specializations. It involves engaging with current political issues through coursework, research projects, and often internships or co-op placements, providing practical experience alongside academic learning. Students learn to critically analyze political texts, develop research skills, and understand the historical and socio-economic contexts of political issues.

Faculty members are distinguished scholars with expertise in various areas of political science, providing mentorship and encouraging active participation in academic discourse. The university offers resources such as research centres, libraries, and seminars that enhance the learning experience. The program also aims to develop strong writing, communication, and quantitative skills, which are essential in the political field.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at UBC Vancouver have gone on to successful careers in politics, public administration, international organizations, journalism, law, and academia. The program also offers a solid foundation for students wishing to pursue graduate studies in political science or related disciplines. The university’s vibrant campus life, combined with its proximity to governmental and international institutions in Vancouver, provides students with unique opportunities for engagement, internships, and networking with professionals in the field. Overall, the program is designed to produce informed, critically engaged citizens equipped to analyze and influence the political landscape at various levels.