Political Science
Critical thinking in action
Political science is the study of power, authority and governance in human affairs. We examine the social, economic, cultural, historical, geographical and other forces that generate conflicts in and between societies.
Do you want to understand how decisions are made at different levels of government? Are you curious about how social justice issues affect you and the world?
Join us and learn how to evaluate different points of view and think critically about the world around you.
Study political science at UVic
From small class sizes to hands-on and international learning, learn why you should study political science at UVic.
News & Stories
Congratulations to Sarah Stilwell!
March 6, 2026
Congratulations to PhD student, Sarah Stilwell, who has been awarded the Faculty of Social Sciences 2025-26 Graduate Excellence Award, specifically the Community-Engaged Research and Knowledge...
Political Science Weekly Digest for Friday, March 6, 2026
March 6, 2026
We acknowledge and respect the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt) Peoples on whose territory the university stands,...
2026 summer courses
January 7, 2026
Learn more about our 2026 summer courses. Timed-ticket registration starts Monday, March 9. Questions? Contact our POLI Undergraduate Adviser - Scott Watson.
News
Faculty of Social Sciences
The Faculty of Social Sciences is a dynamic and multi-faceted community of people. We have more than 140 regular faculty members, 200 additional adjunct, emeritus and sessional faculty, and approximately 30 support employees. Our student community includes roughly 400 graduate students and more than 4,500 undergraduate students.