Canada is a democratic nation that respects the views of all reactions in society. It is known for its multicultural diversity, with people from all corners of the world residing, studying, and thriving together. If a student wishes to learn the intricacies of political science, Canada is among the best places to pursue higher education and research opportunities in the field.

Political science graduates can directly enter the job market to take up positions as diplomats, political scientists, government officials, political consultants, policy analysts, and data analysts, among others. Those who wish to use the degree as a launchpad into research facilities and other fields of journalism, public policy, and advocacy can also take politics courses to have a strong foundation. With Canada's unique political culture, graduates can get various opportunities in the public and private sectors.

Are you interested in pursuing a political science degree in Canada? If so, book a free consultation with SI-Canada to start your application today.

Best Universities to Study Political Science in Canada

Learn more about Canada's best universities for political science degrees (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024) below.

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto's Department of Political Science offers undergraduate and graduate degrees to students worldwide. It is ranked among the best in the world as its mission is to encourage students to think critically, broadly, and internationally regarding the core features of democratic and global citizenship. The faculty strives for excellence in teaching and research by delivering the course materials through innovative approaches.

• Suggested course: MA in Political Science
• International fees: $48,470 
• Entry Requirements: All applicants must have a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade average of B+, preferably in political science. English Language proficiency scores are also needed. 

2. McGill University

Among the top-ranked and oldest Canadian educational institutions, McGill University is known to provide degrees and diplomas in over 300 fields of study. The Department of Political Science at McGill offers exciting study options at the undergraduate and graduate levels and has programs in all the major subfields of political science. Apart from the academic courses, students can also work with faculty members on their research projects or with professors as their research assistants, engage in exchange programs with other universities and take up internships to enhance their overall experience. 

• Suggested course: MA in Political Science
• International fees: $15,576 per year
• Entry requirements: All applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree with a CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 and show proficiency in the English language. 

3. University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia is among the best educational institutions in Canada, and it is known for its superior quality of education. UBC offers undergraduate and graduate courses in the subject through the Department of Political Science at the Faculty of Arts, and students will develop a deep understanding of society, politics and the economy from the local to the international level through the courses. Additionally, they are trained in writing skills, collaboration, data analysis, presentation, political action, research design and policy analysis. The world-class faculty is dedicated to providing knowledge through innovative methods.

• Suggested course: MA in Political Science
• International fees: $9,500 
• Entry requirements: All applicants must have a Bachelor's degree with a minimum overall average of B+, apart from having proficiency in the English language, to apply for the program.

4. University of Ottawa

Established in 1848, the U of O is the largest English-French university in the world. Through the School of Political Science at the Faculty of Social Sciences, the university offers undergraduate and graduate programs by combining the study of public administration and political science. The school allows students to acquire in-depth knowledge through disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches. The programs are perfect for students who want to study all aspects of contemporary politics. The undergraduate program can be taken in both languages, making the student body genuinely diverse. 

• Suggested course: Master of Arts in Political Science
• International fees: N/A
• Entry requirements: Applicants with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science with a minimum average of 70% are given higher preference. English language proficiency is also needed. 

5. Carleton University

Carleton University's Department of Political Science offers undergraduate and graduate degrees. The faculty comprises internationally renowned scholars and professors investigating society's national and global challenges. The program aims to teach students how to contribute positively to people's collective lives. Most Carleton graduates work in provincial or federal services, political parties, local government, non-governmental organizations, diplomacy, research and consulting, and global agencies.

• Suggested course: MA in Political Science
• International fees: $10,661 per year
• Entry requirements: Applicants must hold. Bachelor's degree, preferably in political science or a related discipline. English Language proficiency scores are also needed.

6. University de Montreal

The University de Montreal’s Department of Political Science offers undergraduate and graduate programs. A master’s degree in political science can be opted for full-time or part-time. The degree offers personalized training focusing on theoretical and practical aspects of research and political analysis in areas like political ideas, comparative politics, power and behaviour, and international relations. 

Political science graduates can develop expertise and take a step towards a university or college teaching career. They can also opt for in-depth research by enrolling for PhD in political science. Besides, graduates can make their careers in news and media, non-governmental groups, and international public institutions. 

• Suggested course: Master’s in Political Science
• International fees: $10,858 per year
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree in political science or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.3 | Must have a good knowledge of English and must have qualified in any of the following English language skills test, such as IELTS or TOEFL

7. University of Alberta

The Department of Political Science (Faculty of Arts) offers political studies at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The postgraduate course is categorized into two types: course-based and thesis-based. The subject trains you to apply concepts and theory to real-world situations, communicate in diverse ways, and synthesize complex ideas. MA in political science prepares students to conduct leading research in public policy and mobilize solutions to different challenges. During the course, you will have opportunities to learn and network with policy professionals from municipal, provincial, and federal governments. You will also understand the theories and models of public policy and develop skills in project planning. Graduates in this industry can work in industries like non-profit organizations, government agencies, and federal services. 

• Suggested course: M.A in Political Science
• International fees: $10,199 per year
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.3 | TOEFL with a minimum score of 600 (paper-based) or a total of 100 (internet-based) with a score of at least 20 in each component or IELTS minimum score of 7.0 with at least 6 in each band

8. York University

The Department of Politics is the largest program in Ontario and has an international reputation for its academic excellence. Graduate programs in political science include master’s degrees in political science, PhD in political science, and graduate diplomas in international and security studies. The program is designed to provide students with analytical and leadership skills that will allow them to take careers in fields like academics, community, and policy circles. During the coursework, you will gain communication skills and the capacity to contribute substantially as researchers, policymakers, and advocates. 

• Suggested course: MA in Politics
• International fees: $37,442 per year
• Entry requirements: Three-year full-time course in political studies or equivalent with at least a B+ grade or above | Demonstrate English language skills qualifications in any one of the following: IELTS/TOEFL

9. Queen’s University at Kingston

Department of Political Studies at Queen’s University at Kingston offers an M.A. in Politics in two ways: a 12-month MA in Political Studies and a 12-month MA with a specialization in Political and Legal Thought. The department offers five fields within the M.A. in political studies: Canadian Politics, Comparative Politics, Gender and Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory.

During the program, you will hone critical and analytical skills through course and written work and gain a deep understanding of political-related issues. After completing the program, graduates can opt for careers as activists, special interest advocates, lobbyists, and associate managers. 

• Suggested course: M.A in Politics
• International fees: $17,421 per year
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with at least a B+ grade or equivalent in politics | IELTS minimum score of 7 with no band less than 6.5 or TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper-based)

10. Simon Fraser University

The department offers five fields of study in political science and offers rigorous training for successful career opportunities in future. MA in politics is completed through a thesis submission or a project option. 

The project option in MA politics comprises six courses, a proposal, and a research project examined according to the Graduate General Regulations. On the other hand, the thesis option includes four courses, a proposal, and a thesis examined according to the Graduate General Regulations. Fraser University graduates can work in federal services, government agencies, and diplomacy. 

• Suggested course: Master of Arts in Political Science
• International fees: $2,066 per term
• Entry requirements: A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.33 on undergraduate programs | IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5 with no band less than 6 or TOEFL overall score of 88 or equivalent

Study Politics in Canada

Arrange a free consultation with SI-Global if you want to study in Canada. Our educational consultants will take you through your study options and help you apply.