Department of Political Science

In the Department of Political Science, we teach our students about the political world, the ways in which institutions and behaviours come together, and about the methodological skills required for research in the social sciences. 

We offer courses in the main fields of political science -- political theory, international relations, Canadian politics, comparative politics, local government, and public administration -- and we are a leader in research methodology.

We aim to deepen students' understanding of (1) key ideas and values, such as democracy, freedom, justice, and equality; and (2) central institutions and practices, such as the state, law, constitutions, elections, leadership, interest groups, public opinion, political conflict, war, and peace.

We also enable students to focus on some of the critical issues currently facing modern societies; from the threats of climate change and nuclear war, to the promise of global justice, human rights, and the welfare state.

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News and Updates

The Chancellor’s Prize Winner Jasdeep Sidhu and PS Faculty members

2024 The Chancellor’s Prize Award Winner

We are proud to congratulate Political Science undergraduate student Jasdeep Sidhu, winner of the 2024 Chancellor's Prize in Social Science! The Chancellor’s Prize in Social Science is for a single student in Western Social Science, awarded annually to the student graduating from a Social Science Honours Program who has achieved the highest academic standing in the graduating year. Well, done Jasdeep!

Western Faculty Scholar Award 

Professor Chris Alcantara has been selected as one of Western's Faculty Scholars for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 academic years. The award celebrates the complete scholar who has maintained an excellent record in teaching and research, and who has recently achieved prominence in one of these two domains. Congratulations!

American Political Science Review Article

Why are some constitutions amended more than others? Professors William D. Blake (University of Maryland), Joseph Cozza (Rice university), David A. Armstrong, and Amanda Friesen reveal how social capital reduces transaction costs imposed by amendment rules. Published online by Cambridge University Press.

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