Why study this program?

The Department of Political Science offers programs leading to the Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science, and the Master of Arts in Policy Studies.

The following fields of study are offered in the master’s and doctoral programs: Canadian politics, comparative politics, gender and politics, international relations, and political philosophy/theory.

Entrance Requirements

The Department’s minimum admission requirements are an undergraduate degree with an average of 3.3 in the last two years of undergraduate work (or graduate work) at the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.

For all programs, an undergraduate degree in Political Science or close cognates such as International Relations or International Political Economy is strongly preferred. Applicants with other undergraduate majors should normally have at least equivalent to 30 units of graded credits of coursework in Political Science.

For the MA in Policy Studies, an undergraduate degree in Public Policy is also acceptable. For the MA in Policy Studies course-based route, relevant work experience in the policy community is required.

A TOEFL score of 100 (Internet-based) or an equivalent score on a test acceptable to GPS is required where applicable.

A statement of intent, a writing sample, and a CV are also required.

For more information on the University’s commitment to the recruitment, retention, and graduation of Indigenous students, see Indigenous Applicants .