Political Science


Political Science provides a strong foundation in Canadian and international politics, comparative politics, and political theory.

Overview

Political Science provides a strong foundation in Canadian and international politics, comparative politics, and political theory.

The study of politics examines the nature and workings of power, state, and government; the rights and duties of citizenship; the limits and possibilities of collective political action; and the social, economic, and cultural formations that shape the life of the political community.

The scope of inquiry is local, national, and international; it includes the empirical analysis of individuals, groups, institutions, and processes as well as the investigation of long-standing philosophical questions concerning human nature, freedom, democracy, and justice.

At a Glance

Degree options
Bachelor of Arts (BA), major or honours
Minor

Curriculum

At Mount Allison, the Political Science program is organized into four main subfields.

These include:

  • Canadian politics
  • Comparative politics
  • International politics
  • Political theory

The program offers students the opportunity to gain a strong foundation in all four subfields and to combine empirical, practical, and theoretical approaches in each year of study.

In addition to courses in Canadian politics, you may choose specialized area courses in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States.

If you wish to pursue a more intensive concentration in one particular subfield, you can also take courses in Canadian studies, international relations, history, and philosophy.

Political Science is available as:

  • BA major (60 credits)
  • BA honours (72 credits)
  • Minor in any degree (24 credits)

Not sure about the difference between a major, a minor, an honours, and a certificate?

Careers

Whether you're entering the job market or continuing your education, your Mount Allison degree will stand out.

Mount Allison has been recognized by Maclean's as the top primarily undergraduate university in Canada more times than any other university.

With experiential learning and career development opportunities available in every degree, you'll also graduate with hands-on learning and real-world experience.

Our graduates also boast extraordinarily high acceptance rates to top graduate programs and professional schools such as law and medicine.

Popular career paths for Political Science graduates include:

  • legislative/executive assistant (for MPs, provincial representatives)
  • public policy/business analyst
  • intelligence/threat management analyst
  • emergency preparedness officer
  • cultural affairs/foreign service officer
  • municipal administrator
  • urban planner
  • immigration/citizenship officer
  • community development officer
  • human rights officer
  • government relations officer

Alumni Spotlight

David Spence ('19)
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and Religious Studies
Anti-Corruption Specialist, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime

» David Spence (’19) shares his journey from high school dropout to working for the UN

Testimonials

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The outstanding professors, exciting and relevant course content, and opportunities inside and outside the classroom makes Mount Allison's Political Science program stand out. I came to love the close-knit and supportive environment within the program, and the chance to gain a breadth of knowledge ranging from Maritime Provincial Politics, to African politics, Middle Eastern politics, and beyond. I will be forever grateful for the guidance and mentorship of the professors in the department.


Meghan Ainslie
MacAskill
'20
Honours Political Science, minor in History
Bedford, NS
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The Department of Politics and International Relations at Mount Allison is extremely representative of the MtA philosophy of being a 'person rather than a number.' Over the years I've had the chance to work as a research assistant, a teaching assistant, and participate in the New Brunswick Legislative Internship Program. Moreover, the program really gives you the opportunity to get to know your professors and get involved with their research.


Ian
Richardson
'22
Honours International Relations, minors in Political Science, French Studies, and Economics
Ottawa, ON

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Bachelor of Arts

Admission Requirements

Our admissions decisions are based on your academic record, leadership skills, a high level of commitment, and the potential for persona growth. The drop down menu below will help you find information on what pre-requisites are recommended for the Bachelor of Arts.

Academic Awards

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Mount A is #2 in student awards


Maclean’s ranks Mount Allison second in student and faculty awards in its latest University Rankings. To date, 56 Mount Allison students have become Rhodes Scholars — one of the best per capita records in Canada.

Next Steps

Be part of Canada's best undergraduate university