The study of political science explores the complexities of public policy, politics, and government, with the goal of influencing future social developments around the world. Choosing the correct school is essential for students hoping to pursue careers in public administration, international relations, or politics. The best universities for political science in Canada are well known for their demanding curricula, illustrious faculty, and excellent research possibilities. These universities provide a thorough education covering a wide range of political systems, comparative politics, and international affairs topics.
Students who enroll in one of best universities for political science in Canada acquire the knowledge and analytical abilities necessary to succeed in a variety of professional settings, including positions in international organizations and government. The best universities for political science in Canada will be highlighted in this guide, along with information about their curricula, chances for research, and general academic standing to assist prospective students in making an educated choice about their futures.
Best Universities for Political Science in Canada
1. University of Toronto
Suggested course: MA in Political Science
International fees: $48,470
Entry Requirements: All applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative grade average of B+, preferably in political science. English Language proficiency scores are also needed.
Students from all around the world can pursue graduate and undergraduate degrees in political science at the University of Toronto. Its objective is to inspire students to think critically, widely, and globally about the fundamentals of democracy and global citizenship, which has earned it a reputation as one of the greatest in the world. The faculty uses creative methods to offer the course materials in an effort to achieve excellence in both teaching and research.
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2. McGill University
Suggested course: MA in Political Science
International fees: $15,576 per year
Entry requirements: All applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree with a CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 and show proficiency in the English language.
McGill University, one of the best-known and oldest universities in Canada, offers degrees and certificates in more than 300 subject areas. All of the major subfields of political science are covered by the intriguing undergraduate and graduate study opportunities offered by McGill’s Department of Political Science. In addition to academic classes, students can participate in exchange programs with other institutions, work on research projects with faculty members or as research assistants with professors, and expand their entire experience by taking up internships.
3. University of British Columbia
Suggested course: MA in Political Science
International fees: $9,500
Entry requirements: All applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum overall average of B+, apart from having proficiency in the English language, to apply for the program.
Among Canada’s top universities, the University of British Columbia is renowned for providing an exceptional education. Through the Department of Political Science at the Faculty of Arts, UBC provides undergraduate and graduate courses in the field. Through these courses, students will gain a thorough understanding of society, politics, and the economy on a local and global scale. They also receive training in political activity, study design, data analysis, collaboration, writing, and policy analysis. The elite faculty is committed to disseminating information via cutting-edge techniques.
4. University of Ottawa
Suggested course: Master of Arts in Political Science
International fees: N/A
Entry requirements: Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minimum average of 70% are given higher preference. English language proficiency is also needed.
The U of O is the biggest English-French university in the world, having been founded in 1848. The institution combines the study of public administration and political science to offer undergraduate and graduate degrees through the School of Political Science at the Faculty of Social Sciences. The school uses both disciplinary and transdisciplinary methods to enable pupils to gain in-depth knowledge. For students who wish to study every facet of modern politics, these programs are ideal. Since both languages are offered for the undergraduate program, the student body is very diversified.
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5. Carleton University
Suggested course: MA in Political Science
International fees: $10,661 per year
Entry requirements: Applicants must hold. Bachelor’s degree, preferably in political science or a related discipline. English Language proficiency scores are also needed.
The department provides rigorous training for potential job options in political science and offers five areas of study. The MA in politics can be earned either project-based learning or thesis submission.
Six courses, a proposal, and a research project that are evaluated in accordance with Graduate General Regulations make up the project option for MA politics. The thesis option, on the other hand, consists of four courses, a proposal, and a thesis that is evaluated in compliance with Graduate General Regulations. Graduates of Fraser University can find employment in government, federal services, and diplomacy.
6. University de Montreal
Suggested course: Master’s in Political Science
International fees: $10,858 per year
Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree in political science or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.3 | Must have a good knowledge of English and must have qualified in any of the following English language skills test, such as IELTS or TOEFL
The Political Science Department at Carleton University grants graduate and undergraduate degrees. The faculty is made up of professors and scholars with international recognition who study national and international societal issues. The curriculum attempts to educate pupils on how to make constructive contributions to the lives of others. The majority of Carleton graduates hold positions in municipal or federal government, political parties, non-governmental organizations, research and consulting, diplomatic missions, and international organizations.
7. University of Alberta
Suggested course: M.A in Political Science
International fees: $10,199 per year
Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.3 | TOEFL with a minimum score of 600 (paper-based) or a total of 100 (internet-based) with a score of at least 20 in each component or IELTS minimum score of 7.0 with at least 6 in each band
Undergraduate and graduate courses are available in the Political Science Department at the University of Montréal. One can choose to pursue a political science master’s degree full- or part-time. With a concentration on both theoretical and practical facets of research and political analysis, the degree provides individualized instruction in subjects including international relations, comparative politics, political concepts, and power and behavior.
Graduates in political science can advance their knowledge and move closer to becoming college or university teachers. They can also choose to pursue a PhD in political science in order to conduct in-depth study. Additionally, graduates might pursue positions in international public institutions, non-governmental organizations, and the press and media.
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8. York University
Suggested course: MA in Politics
International fees: $37,442 per year
Entry requirements: Three-year full-time course in political studies or equivalent with at least a B+ grade or above | Demonstrate English language skills qualifications in any one of the following: IELTS/TOEFL
Undergraduate and graduate courses in political studies are available through the Department of Political Science under the Faculty of Arts. There are two sorts of postgraduate courses: thesis-based and course-based. You will learn how to synthesize complicated ideas, communicate in a variety of ways, and apply theory and concepts to real-world problems in this course. An MA in political science equips students with the skills necessary to carry out cutting-edge research on public policy and organize responses to various problems.
You will have the chance to learn from and network with policy experts from local, state, and federal governments throughout the course. Along with learning about public policy theories and models, you will also gain project planning abilities. Graduates in this field can find employment in federal services, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
9. Queen’s University at Kingston
Suggested course: M.A in Politics
International fees: $17,421 per year
Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with at least a B+ grade or equivalent in politics | IELTS minimum score of 7 with no band less than 6.5 or TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper-based)
There are two options for earning an M.A. in Politics offered by the Department of Political Studies at Queen’s University in Kingston: a 12-month MA in Political Studies or a 12-month MA with a focus on Political and Legal Thought. Within the M.A. program in political studies, the department provides the following five fields: Political Theory, International Relations, Gender and Politics, Comparative Politics, and Canadian Politics.
Through coursework and written assignments, you will polish your analytical and critical thinking abilities throughout the program and develop a thorough comprehension of political matters. Graduates of the program can choose to work as lobbyists, associate managers, activists, or special interest advocates.
10. Simon Fraser University
Suggested course: Master of Arts in Political Science
International fees: $2,066 per term
Entry requirements: A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.33 on undergraduate programs | IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5 with no band less than 6 or TOEFL overall score of 88 or equivalent
The department provides rigorous training for potential job options in political science and offers five areas of study. The MA in politics can be earned either project-based learning or thesis submission.
Six courses, a proposal, and a research project that are evaluated in accordance with Graduate General Regulations make up the project option for MA politics. The thesis option, on the other hand, consists of four courses, a proposal, and a thesis that is evaluated in compliance with Graduate General Regulations. Graduates of Fraser University can find employment in government, federal services, and diplomacy.
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Which aspects need to be taken into account while selecting best universities for political science in Canada?
Think about things like faculty experience, research possibilities, program curriculum, and university reputation while choosing best universities for political science in Canada. A robust program in political science ought to encompass an extensive array of subjects, such as comparative politics, public policy, international relations, and political philosophy. Expertise from the faculty is essential since they may provide insightful guidance and important insights.
Facilities and research opportunities are crucial for students engaged in policy or academic study. Furthermore, the university’s standing and its affiliations to political groups or institutions might improve networking and employment prospects. You can select the best universities for political science in Canada that most closely match your professional goals by weighing these factors.
Which Canadian universities are regarded as having the best political science programs?
The University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Ottawa, and York University are a few of best universities for political science in Canada. The University of Toronto is well known for its renowned professors and extensive political science program. Global politics and policy analysis are major areas of emphasis in the wide curriculum offered by the University of British Columbia. McGill University places a great focus on political philosophy and international affairs.
Studying Canadian politics and public administration at the capital city’s University of Ottawa presents exceptional prospects. York University is renowned for its cutting-edge methods of teaching and studying political science. Because of their outstanding academic records and significant contributions to the subject of political science, these universities are acknowledged as the top ones in Canada.
How much does it cost to study political science at any of the best universities for political science in Canada?
Depending on the university and the student’s residency status, studying political science at the best universities for political science in Canada varies in cost. Tuition for overseas students normally costs between CAD 30,000 and CAD 60,000 annually. For example, the University of Toronto costs international students about CAD 55,000 year. The annual tuition at the University of British Columbia ranges from CAD 40,000 to CAD 50,000.
Annual tuition at McGill University is about CAD 45,000. The annual costs at York University range from CAD 35,000 to CAD 45,000, whereas the University of Ottawa charges from CAD 30,000 to CAD 40,000. The costs for domestic students are often less expensive, ranging from CAD 7,000 to CAD 15,000 annually.
What professional options are open to graduates of best universities for political science in Canada?
There are many different employment options available to political science graduates from any of these best universities for political science in Canada. Public relations specialist, policy advisor, political analyst, diplomat, and government affairs consultant are examples of common roles. Graduates may also find employment in international organizations, research institutes, or non-profits.
Some graduates also go into academics, law, or media as their jobs.
These programs’ solid academic foundations and hands-on learning opportunities equip students for leadership positions in public policy, governance, and international affairs. The comprehensive education offered by these best universities for political science in Canada gives graduates the know-how and abilities needed to be successful in these varied and influential fields.
Are there any co-ops or internships available for students at any of the best universities for political science in Canada?
Indeed, a large number of best universities for political science in Canada offers co-ops and internships to give students real-world experience. For instance, the University of Ottawa’s Co-op Program enables students to work in a range of foreign companies and government offices through internships.
In order to provide students with practical experience in politics and public policy, the political science departments at the Universities of Toronto and McGill University also provide internships and job placements. Cooperative postings with governmental and nonprofit institutions are offered by York University. These experiences give students a competitive edge in the job market after graduation by enabling them to use their academic knowledge in practical situations and improve their resumes.
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How are scholarly advancement and research supported by the best universities for political science in Canada?
The best universities for political science in Canada provide access to academic resources, funding opportunities, and specialized research institutes to foster research and academic growth. The University of Toronto, for instance, is home to a number of research institutions specializing in public policy and political studies. Research is supported by the University of British Columbia’s Center for the Study of Democratic Institutions.
McGill University’s Institute for the Study of International Development provides chances for research. Both York University and the University of Ottawa place a strong emphasis on research, giving students access to enormous academic libraries and financial support for their studies. These universities provide a research-focused atmosphere that promotes academic success and advances the field of political science.
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