Political Science
What Is Political Science?
Political Science is the study of power, law, and governance – locally, nationally, and globally. At McMaster, students explore how decisions are made, rights are protected, and institutions evolve.
The program emphasizes critical thinking, public engagement, and interdisciplinary learning, preparing students to analyze complex political issues and contribute to meaningful change.
What Might You Study?
Courses in Political Science span five major fields and offer diverse perspectives on politics and society:
Canadian Politics
Institutions, elections, Indigenous governance, and public policy
Comparative Politics
Political systems, democratization, and global development
International Relations
Diplomacy, conflict, global governance, and foreign policy
Political Theory
Justice, democracy, identity, and political thought
Public Policy
Health, environment, education, and economic regulation
Program Options
Program Type |
Description |
| Honours BA in Political Science | Comprehensive study of politics, law, and governance |
| Political Science (BA) |
A flexible 3-year program focused on politics, law, and global affairs with customizable course pathways |
| Honours BA with Co-op Option | Gain paid work experience in political and public sectors |
| Honours Political Science – University of Birmingham LLB Option (BA) | Earn a law degree with a focus on constitutional, criminal, and administrative law |
| Specialization in Public Law and Judicial Studies | Focus on constitutional, criminal, and administrative law |
| Specialization in Global Citizenship | Explore global justice, diplomacy, and international institutions |
| Combined Honours BA | Pair Political Science with another discipline |
| Minor in Political Science | Add political insight to any major |
| Minor in Justice, Law and Order | Study legal systems and political accountability |
| Minor in Public Leadership | Develop leadership skills for public service |
| Interdisciplinary Minor in Civic Vitality, Democracy and Electoral Management (CIVDEM) |
Focused study of democratic engagement, electoral systems, and civic leadership across disciplines |
* Courses range from topics like Politics and Power in a Globalizing World, Work and Racism, Global Political Economy, Public Law and Judicial Studies, and Cosmopolitanism and Its Critics.
Explore Public Policy
Curious about how governments make decisions that shape society? While McMaster offers Public Policy as a graduate-level program (Master of Public Policy), undergraduate students in Political Science can begin building the foundations through courses in governance, law, and policy analysis. For those interested in careers in government, advocacy, or policy research, this pathway offers a strong launchpad toward advanced study and impact-driven work.
Unique Opportunities
Political Science students engage in experiential learning, policy research, and public engagement – preparing them for careers in law, government, advocacy, and international affairs.
Labs & Facilities
The department offers collaborative spaces, labs, and research hubs:
- Centre for Health Economics and Policy Analysis (CHEPA): Conducts interdisciplinary research to inform fair and effective health policy
- Institute on Globalization and the Human Condition (IGHC): Explores global change through interdisciplinary research, teaching, and community engagement
- Public Banking Project: Advances global research on public banks for sustainable and inclusive transitions
- Digital Society Lab: Examines how digital technologies shape democracy, public opinion, and civic engagement
Students explore politics through data analysis, fieldwork, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Experiential Learning & Internships
Students gain hands-on experience through placements, research, and public engagement:
Key highlights:
- Political Science 3PR3: Placement course with MPs, MPPs, city councillors, and NGOs
- Political Science 3WP3: Internship credit for public sector experience
- Political Science 3FG3: Paid summer internships with the federal government
- Public Leadership for Change: Distinguished Visiting Professor program
- Queen’s Park Day: Annual student visit to Ontario’s legislature
- Career planning course (SOC SCI 2EL3)
- Honours Political Science Co-Op (B.A.)
These experiences help students apply theory to practice and build networks in law, policy, and advocacy.
Study Abroad & Global Opportunities
Political Science students can broaden their perspectives through international exchanges and global research:
Key highlights:
- McMaster Exchange Program with 100+ global partner universities
- Study abroad while earning McMaster credits
- Courses on global citizenship, diplomacy, and international law
- Funding support through fellowships and travel bursaries
- Opportunities to attend global conferences and collaborate with international scholars
These experiences foster cross-cultural understanding and prepare students for global careers in politics and policy.
Student Life & Community
Political Science offers a dynamic and inclusive student experience with strong faculty support:
Key highlights:
- McMaster Political Science Students Association: Connects Political Science students through events, mentorship, and department engagement
- Centre for Health Economics and Policy Analysis: Fosters interdisciplinary research to strengthen health systems and inform policy
- Institute on Globalization and the Human Condition: Examines global issues through interdisciplinary teaching, research, and student engagement
Students build lasting relationships while exploring the forces that shape our world.