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Future Students
Want to Make a Difference? Study Political Science!
A degree in political science prepares students for a wide range of jobs in many different fields, including but not limited to: federal/provincial/local government, business, journalism, broadcasting, public relations, international relations, policy analysis, market research, interest group advocacy, law and education. A political science degree offers not just the knowledge and background needed for these jobs, but a complex set of skills as well. Research, analysis, critical thinking, writing, problem-solving, and public speaking skills figure highly in our courses.
Political Science is interdisciplinary in nature and is a perfect complement to a great range of other subjects, such as economics, history, sociology, psychology, geography, criminology, philosophy, or business. Everyone benefits from learning about government and politics. Most people will be called on to vote periodically and help make vital choices about who should govern their city, province, and country.
Our Political Science department is home to award-winning faculty recognized for excellence in teaching. Students benefit from engaging, high-quality, and thought-provoking courses led by instructors who are dedicated to outstanding learning experiences.
The Department of Political Science offers specialized programs, such as an Honours Specialization in Political Science. However, the Department also has opportunities for interdisciplinary education through an Honours Specialization in Politics, Philosophy and Economics - Politics and Philosophy (PPE-P). Other opportunities for Interdisciplinary Education include International Relations, Centre for Transitional Justice & Post-Conflict Reconstruction, Faculty of Law, Ivey HBA Program.
To learn more about our programs, please watch our Virtual Fall Preview Day 2020 - Political Science Overview and Virtual Fall Preview Day 2020 - Politics, Philosophy and Economics Overview videos.
Since Political Science is a broad area of inquiry, it is often divided into several subfields:
- Canadian Politics
- International Relations
- Political Theory
- Comparative Politcs
- Local Government (Public Policy & Public Administration)
- Political Behaviour
In these specialized subfields, your studies will have relevance to today's issues and tomorrow's developments. Whether you wish to study the theoretical or practical side of politics; whether you want to master the details of public policy making in Canada or learn about the implications of globalization; whether you seek to focus your attention on current issues or on their historical background, Western Political Science has much to offer you.
The normal course load for a first-year program is 5 first-year courses. These courses are numbered 1000 to 1999 and must include at least 4 different subjects with no more than 2 courses in one subject.
Additionally, students must satisfy the Breadth Requirements. This means that at least one course must be chosen from each of three categories - Category A (Social Science), Category B (Arts), and Category C (Science). Any outstanding breadth requirement not completed in first year must be completed prior to graduation.
This course is the gateway to other courses in Political Science and prepares you for classes in all of the sub-fields of Political Science, such as: international relations, comparative politics (different regions of the world), Canadian politics (domestic and foreign policy, federal, provincial and local), public policy, and political theory and philosophy. Politics 1025F/G and 1026F/G is required for admission to all undergraduate programs in Political Science.
What Skills Will I Acquire? In this course you will actively hone skills that will serve you for life:
- Capacity to think critically and systematically
- Capacity to write and speak clearly and effectively
- Research skills
- Problem-solving skills
Studying politics will assist you in a career in: government, business, journalism, law, law enforcement, non-governmental organizations, political parties, public relations, teaching, United Nations, lobbying, market research, publishing, or academia.
For information on course details, classes, and assignments, please refer to the following handout: Politics 1025F/G and 1026F/G (Previously 1020E).
Students considering an Honors Specialization or Major in Political Science or Global Justice, an Honors Specialization in International Relations and an Honors Specialization in Politics, Philosophy and Economics - Politics and Philosophy (PPE-P) would benefit from enrolling in the following courses:
| Course Suggestion | Description |
| Enrollment in, and successful completion of Political Science 1025F/G and 1026F/G - Introduction to Political Science fulfills the prerequisites for all senior Political Science courses. It is also a necessary requirement for declaring an area of concentration in Political Science, Global Justice, International Relations, or PPE-P. | |
| For students wishing to gain admission to the International Relations Program, you will need to complete a 1000-Level History course. | |
| For students wishing to gain admission into the Politics, Philosophy and Economics - Politics and Philosophy (PPE-P) program, you will need to complete Economics 1021A/B and Economics 1022A/B . | |
| For students wishing go tain admission into the Politics, Philosophy and Economics - Politics and Philosophy (PPE-P) program, you will need to complete a 1000-Level Philosophy course. This will also satisfy the Category B (Arts) graduation requirement. | |
| Enrollment in, and successful completion of a 1000-Level Science course (e.g., Astronomy, Biology, Computer Science, Mathematics) satisfies the Category C graduation requirement. |
Note: This sample is only a suggestion, students are encouraged to take courses that capture their interests.
This Guide for Prospective Students is a quick-start guide to thriving in your first year at Western Social Science — from mastering time management and study habits to getting involved on campus and accessing the academic, health, and wellness supports that help students succeed.
It’s a friendly roadmap to feeling prepared, connected, and confident as you begin your university journey.Start Preparing for University
Kick off your first year with Western Launch and 1-1 Course Advising offered by the University through a series of modules designed to guide you through a seamless transition into university life! Learn key deadlines, explore departments, and get insider tips. Need help picking courses or planning your year? Connect with a peer advisor and get personalized guidance. We highly recommend that first-year students take advantage and as an incoming student, you'll be automatically added to the program and connects virtually with a peer advisor so you can feel more confident in your transition.
Meet Our Students: Celebrating Success Stories
Highlighting the inspiring achievements, unique experiences, and remarkable contributions of Political Science students who are making a difference in our community and beyond. From academic excellence to leadership and advocacy, these stories showcase the talent, resilience, and passion of the next generation. Get inspired by their journeys!
