Bachelor of Arts in Political - Nipissing Unive

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Nipissing University provides a comprehensive understanding of political processes and institutions, emphasizing critical thinking, research skills, and specialization in areas like Canadian politics, international security, or public policy. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in government, politics, business, law, and non-profit organizations.

Program Outline

Bachelors of Arts (BA) in Political Science

Degree Overview:

Welcome to Political Science at Nipissing

This degree program examines political topics that range from the foundations of international relations and foreign policy to Canadian politics. The program provides students with a strong foundation in political theory, comparative politics, and international relations. It also gives students the opportunity to specialize in particular areas of interest, such as Canadian politics, international security, or public policy.

Objectives:

To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of political science.
To develop critical thinking skills.
To cultivate writing and research skills.
To prepare students for graduate studies or careers in government, politics, business, or law.

Description:

The Political Science program at Nipissing University is designed to help students develop a deep understanding of political processes and institutions. The program emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and analysis, and encourages students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the public and private sectors.

Highlights:

Small class sizes and personalized attention from professors.
Opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, research projects, and participation in student organizations.
A strong focus on international relations and comparative politics.
A commitment to social justice and civic engagement.

Outline:

Program Requirements:

120 credits in Political Science courses.
A minimum GPA of 2.5.
Completion of a capstone project.

Course Schedule:

The program is typically offered over four years.
Students take a combination of required and elective courses.
Some courses are offered in the fall and winter semesters, while others are offered in the summer.

Individual Modules:

Required Modules:

Introduction to Political Science
Canadian Government and Politics
Comparative Politics
International Relations
Political Theory
Research Methods
Capstone Project

Elective Modules:

Public Policy
Political Economy
International Security
Environmental Politics
Gender and Politics
Indigenous Politics
Law and Society

Module Descriptions:

Introduction to Political Science:

This course provides an overview of the major concepts and themes of political science. It examines the nature of power, legitimacy, and authority, as well as the various institutions and processes of government.

Canadian Government and Politics:

This course examines the Canadian political system, including the Constitution, Parliament, the executive branch, and the judiciary. It also explores contemporary political issues facing Canada.

Comparative Politics:

This course compares the political systems of different countries. It examines the factors that shape political institutions and processes, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing democratic governments around the world.

International Relations:

This course examines the relationships between states, including the role of international organizations, the use of force, and the global economy. It also explores contemporary issues such as terrorism, climate change, and nuclear proliferation.

Political Theory:

This course examines the fundamental questions of political philosophy, such as the nature of justice, the role of government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. It explores the ideas of major political thinkers, from Plato to the present day.

Research Methods:

This course provides students with the skills they need to conduct research in political science. It covers topics such as data collection, data analysis, and writing research papers.

Capstone Project:

This project allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to a research project of their own choosing. Students typically write a thesis or conduct an empirical study.

The program also offers a minor in Political Science.
Students interested in law can pursue a combined degree in Political Science and Law.
The program has a number of exchange agreements with universities in other countries.

Assessment:

Assessment Criteria:

Assignments
Tests
Exams
Presentations
Capstone Project

Assessment Methods:

Essay questions
Short answer questions
Multiple choice questions
Case studies
Research papers
Oral presentations
The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking and writing skills.
Students are encouraged to engage in active learning and to participate in class discussions.
The program uses a variety of assessment methods to ensure that students are meeting the learning objectives.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

Lectures
Seminars
Tutorials
Guest lectures
Field trips

Faculty:

The program has a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members.
The faculty are actively involved in research and teaching.
They are committed to providing students with a high-quality education.
The program offers a supportive learning environment.
Students have access to a variety of resources, including the library, the computer lab, and the writing centre.
The program encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities, such as the Political Science Club.

Careers:

Career Opportunities:

Government
Politics
Business
Law
Non-profit organizations
International organizations

Job Titles:

Policy analyst
Political scientist
Lobbyist
Consultant
Lawyer
Diplomat
Researcher
Teacher
The program prepares students for a wide range of careers.
Graduates of the program are highly sought after by employers.
The program helps students develop the skills they need to be successful in the workplace.

Other:

The program encourages students to study abroad.
The program has a strong alumni network.
The program offers scholarships and bursaries to deserving students.

Program Representative:

Dr. Toivo Koivukoski Associate Professor Political Science 705-474-3450 extension 4636 toivok@nipissingu.ca