Political Science
Political Science
You are interested in what is happening in the world today and you want to get involved and make an impact. A UFV Bachelor of Arts with a Political Science major can prepare you for active involvement as a journalist, teacher, lobbyist, politician, lawyer, social entrepreneur, and more.
As part of your Bachelor of Arts, you can choose to complete a Political Science major, extended minor, or minor. Or you can opt for a minor in Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy. To add more weight to your degree, you may mix your Political Science major with a minor in another subject such as Economics, Communications, or Peace and Conflict Studies.
In year one and two, you learn foundational skills in political science history and theory, statistical analysis, and research methodology. You are encouraged to learn and demonstrate social responsibility through both civic and intercultural engagement in coursework and relevant, paid or volunteer experience.
In year three and four, you take courses in special topics, such as terrorism or international relations. You have the opportunity to participate in debates, discussions, and round table forums in a supportive and safe environment. If you have an interest in research, you may pursue directed independent studies and complete a research project with faculty guidance.
Options to expand your horizons beyond campus include combining your studies with valuable work experience through a paid co-operative placement in your area of interest – perhaps on Parliament Hill. To get exposure to different customs and political institutions, you may also elect to study abroad in one of more than 45 destinations.
A political science degree can lead to a career with a political party or government organization. You may also enjoy a career as a journalist, policy advisor, public administrator, or campaign manager. Or you may work in a field such as international relations, advocacy, education, or labour relations.
A degree in Political Science provides you with skills, such as critical thinking, communications, and statistical analysis, that can help you succeed in law or business. In fact, many grads continue their studies to earn a law degree.
WorkBC is forecasting an increased demand for professional social scientists to work in large private sector organizations, in areas such as government relations, research, or policy analysis. This increase is predicted to spring both from current workers retiring and from new jobs created.