Political Science University of British Columbia

Overview

The Political Science programme at the University of British Columbia provides a rigorous academic foundation for students seeking to master the complexities of modern governance and international relations. This Master of Arts degree is designed to foster deep analytical skills through a combination of intensive seminar-based coursework and original thesis research. Students benefit from a vibrant intellectual community situated within one of Canada's premier research institutions.

Why Political Science at the University of British Columbia?

The department is distinguished by its remarkable methodological breadth, offering expertise in both quantitative and qualitative research techniques. It boasts the country’s most robust sequence of graduate methods courses, making it an ideal destination for those pursuing systematic quantitative analysis. Students gain access to exceptional regional strengths in Asian, European, and American politics, alongside specialised focus areas such as Indigenous politics and environmental governance. The faculty's diverse research interests ensure a rich mentoring environment supported by regular workshops and colloquia.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 9884 per year
• National fee: CAD 5626 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around five substantive fields: Canadian politics, international relations, comparative politics, political theory, and U.S. politics. Modules may include:

• Canadian Politics
• International Relations
• Comparative Politics
• Political Theory
• U.S. Politics
• Indigenous Politics
• Environmental Politics
• Migration, Social Diversity, and Identity
• Democratic Theory and Practice

Careers with Political Science

Graduates are highly successful in securing roles within both academic and professional sectors. Approximately one-third of students progress to doctoral studies at prestigious institutions worldwide, including Cambridge, Duke, and the University of Toronto. Those entering the workforce find opportunities as policy analysts, researchers, and consultants for diverse organisations. Notable employers of past graduates include the United Nations Development Programme, Statistics Canada, the Royal Bank of Canada, and various government agencies such as the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and the City of Vancouver.