What is Political Science

Political science explores the acquisition, organization, and exercise of power. Political scientists typically seek to understand how the institutions of government are constituted and operated. This entails the study of institutional formation, the behaviour of both politicians and those they govern, and the policies resulting from that interaction. The discipline also explores the normative underpinnings of political activity (the issues of justice and fairness of political institutions, for example). Yet, the study of politics extends beyond those traditional concerns to include political aspects of, among other issues, economic behaviour, identity (religious, ethnic, gender), environment, and media. Our department reflects this diversity of our field with research and courses on political psychology and behaviour, political communication, international political economy, the politics of food, ethnic and nationalist conflict, foreign policy, the politics of gender, institutions and institutional change, contentious politics, and numerous others.

What do Political Scientists Do

Course samples

- POSC 3210: INTERNATIONAL LAW
- POSC 3355: SEX, SCANDALS, AND ELECTIONS
- POSC 3260: GLOBAL FOOD POLITICS

What kinds of jobs can graduates in political science get

Political science grads find work in a variety of jobs including government and non-profit organizations. Some go on to complete law degrees and graduate degrees and find more specialized work.