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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.

students sitting on steps

Study political science at UVic

From small class sizes to hands-on and international learning, learn why you should study political science at UVic.

Announcements

Political Science Weekly Digest October 18, 2024

POLITICAL SCIENCE ANNOUNCEMENTS GENDER STUDIES & POLI: “Rethinking Freedom of Speech”Dr. Peter Ives, University of WinnipegFriday, November 8, 12 noon, CLE B115Co-sponsored...

Political Science sessional posting for 2025-26

August 30, 2024

Appointments within CUPE 4163 (Component 3) The Department of Political Science at the University of Victoria seeks Sessional Instructors for the 2025-26 academic year comprised of three terms:...

News

Open Experts on BC election

Experts on BC election

The following University of Victoria experts are available to media to discuss issues relating to the Oct. 19 BC election.

Open Oceans as sources of law

Oceans as sources of law

As an Indigenous law student at the University of Victoria, Andrew Ambers has found himself reflecting a great deal on the laws governing the waters around him.

Open Alumni in action

Alumni in action

Natasha Thambirajah's unexpected journey from biochemistry to a 15-year career in public service, advocating for equity in health policy. Explore her story on the Work It podcast.

View more stories

A UVic researcher studies kelp immersed in a wet suit in the ocean.

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.

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Territorial acknowledgement

We acknowledge and respect the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Esquimalt) Peoples on whose territory the university stands, and the Lək̓ʷəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day.