Political Science
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Why choose Political Science at UVic?
Understand how power shapes the world—and how you can shape it. At UVic, you’ll explore democracy, conflict, human rights and Indigenous governance while building practical skills in analysis, communication and problem-solving.
What makes this program stand out:
- Small-group tutorials are built into first- and second-year courses, giving you more opportunities for discussion and support.
- You’ll take part in real-world learning through internships, research opportunities and policy-focused projects.
- Flexible degree options let you specialize in areas that match your interests and career goals.
- You’ll develop career-ready skills that are valued in government, business and non-profit organizations.
Who is this program for?
This program is a good fit if you:
- Care about global issues and social change
- Enjoy debate, discussion and critical thinking
- Want to influence policy, law or public opinion.
Study issues that shape the world right now
- Climate policy
- Global conflict and diplomacy
- Indigenous governance
- Economic inequality
Customize your degree
Shape your degree around the issues and regions that matter most to you.
- Canadian Politics: Study Canada’s political institutions, economy and culture
- Comparative Politics: Compare political systems across regions like the U.S., Europe, Africa, China and the Middle East
- Indigenous Politics: Learn about relationships between Indigenous nations and settler governments
- International Relations: Explore global conflict, cooperation, trade and human rights
- Political Theory: Examine ideas that shape power, justice and governance.
Legislative Internship Program
Work directly in British Columbia’s parliamentary system. You could
- Support Members of the Legislative Assembly
- Write speeches and draft questions
- Attend Question Period and committee meetings
- What you gain: Real policy and government experience Professional writing and research skills Career connections in public service.
Earn while you learn
Co-operative Education (Co-op)
- Through UVic’s Co-op program, you’ll apply what you learn in paid, career-related positions that count toward your degree—and give you a head start after graduation.
- Co-op is available to everyone, including international students with co-op work permits.
- On average, 70 percent of UVic Co-op students graduate with a job offer already in hand.
- Unlike at some universities, at UVic, you don’t have to compete for a spot in Co-op.
Student life & community
- Undergraduates of Political Science: Take part in social events, career nights, workshops and discussions.
- Model United Nations Club: Participate in UN simulations and conferences.
- On Politics journal: Publish your research and writing in a student-led academic journal.
Inspiring courses
- The Politics of Surveillance
- Sweatshops and the Politics of the Clothing Industry
- The Politics of the Internet
- Gender, Race and Power
- Security, War and Mass Violence in International Politics
- Imagining Middle East Politics
Skills you’ll graduate with
- Policy analysis and briefing writing
- Research and data interpretation
- Persuasive communication and debate
- Negotiation and stakeholder analysis
Career possibilities
- Public policy and government leadership
- Law, advocacy and social impact
- Global affairs and diplomacy
- Communications, media and political strategy
- Consulting, strategy and project leadership
- Non-profit leadership and community impact
Admission
Apply directly to this program as a high school student or a transfer student from another post-secondary institution.
Alternatively, you can apply to another major and then add this program as a minor after one year of full-time study.
Program details
Providing you accurate application deadlines, tuition fee estimates, admission requirements, scholarships and transfer credit depends on your situation.
Program details
Application deadline
Admission requirements
Recommended admission average
Expanded qualifications
English language proficiency
Transfer credit
Tuition & fees
Tuition rates effective May 1, 2026 (please note some ancillary fees are subject to change for Fall 2026).
This is an estimate only and should be used to give students, parents, and/or sponsors an approximation of the tuition and ancillary fees. This estimate does not include housing, food, cost of books and supplies or other expenses that students can expect in a term.
Scholarships
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We'll walk you through all of the steps in the process, from submitting your online application to accepting your offer of admission.
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