Political Science
Undergraduate Program Overview
All Students
Understand Power. Think Critically. Shape Global Change.
Nipissing University’s Political Science program offers an in-depth look at power, policy, and international relations. Designed for students who want to understand the forces shaping our world, this program combines theory with practical analysis to develop critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and globally minded citizens.
Program Highlights
Through a wide range of courses and experiential opportunities, students in the Political Science program explore power, governance, and political systems at every level:
- Political Theory & Foundations: Explore concepts of political theory, power, justice, and global governance.
- Policy Analysis: Analyze contemporary policy issues at the local, national, and international levels.
- Debate & Negotiation Skills: Develop skills in debate, negotiation, and mediation through interactive classroom experiences.
- Global Politics & Institutions: Investigate topics like globalization, conflict resolution, diplomacy, and public administration.
- Expert Faculty Insight: Gain insights from professors with expertise in Canadian politics, international relations, and political philosophy.
Program Related Certificates:
Resources
Program Related
Why Nipissing's Political Science Program?
Small Class Sizes & Mentorship
Participate in engaging discussions where professors know your name and support your academic growth.
Supportive Learning Environment
Join a welcoming community that values diverse ideas, respectful debate, and collaboration.
Real-World Relevance
Examine pressing issues like climate policy, human rights, international diplomacy, and Canadian politics.
Critical Thinking & Communication
Strengthen skills in research, argumentation, negotiation, and writing; highly valued in many careers.
Career Readiness
Prepare for roles in law, government, journalism, policy analysis, and global affairs with a degree that opens doors.
Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission, students must meet the General Admission Requirements, plus program specific prerequisites.
General Admission Requirements include:
Ontario Secondary School Diploma including six 4U/4M courses
Future Careers
A Political Science degree from Nipissing University opens the door to meaningful careers in government, law, public service, and global affairs. Graduates are recognized for their analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills. Graduates may pursue roles in:
Government & Public Policy
Public policy analysts, public administrators, political staffers, government relations advisors
Law & Justice Pathways
Lawyers (with further study), legal consultants, court support roles, legislative assistants
International Relations & Diplomacy
Diplomats, foreign service officers, intelligence analysts, international affairs officers
Media & Communications
Journalists, political correspondents, communications officers, public affairs coordinators
Non-Profit & Advocacy Organizations
NGO leaders, community engagement coordinators, advocacy officers, program managers
Graduate & Professional Studies
Law school candidates, graduate studies in political science, public administration, or related fields
Real People, Real Impact
Nipissing is where I strengthened my voice as both a student and a leader. What makes Nipissing special is the people: smaller classes, professors who know your name, and staff who genuinely care about you.
Tanya M.
Class of 2023
The political science programme was new when I started my first year at Nipissing. After taking one political science course, I was hooked on the readings and issues we studied, but most of all I loved the interactions and debates I could have in the classroom.
Holly A.
Class of 2010
Program Requirements
How the Common Degree Structure Works
At Nipissing, you can choose a minor, major, specialization, or honours specialization—each offering a different level of focus and flexibility to match your goals.
Check out this breakdown of the Common Degree Structure to see how you can make your interests fit your degree.
Program Options & Course Requirements
Find required courses for each type of specialization using this link.
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Disclaimer:
While every effort is made to ensure accuracy on this site, in the event of a discrepancy, Nipissing’s Academic Calendar is the official reference.