Political Science - Bachelor of Arts

Program Overview

The Political Science program at the University of the Fraser Valley prepares students for careers in various fields, including journalism, law, and public administration. The program offers a strong foundation in political science history, theory, and research methods, as well as opportunities for specialization in areas such as terrorism and international relations. Students can also gain practical experience through co-operative placements and study abroad programs.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Goal: Prepare students for active involvement in society as journalists, teachers, lobbyists, politicians, lawyers, social entrepreneurs, and more.
• Structure: Choose a major, extended minor, or minor in Political Science.
Optionally, combine the major with a minor in another subject like Economics, Communications, or Peace and Conflict Studies.
• Year 1 & 2: Foundational skills in political science history and theory, statistical analysis, and research methodology.
Encouraged to learn and demonstrate social responsibility through civic and intercultural engagement.
• Year 3 & 4: Courses in special topics like terrorism or international relations.
Participation in debates, discussions, and round tables. Research opportunities through directed independent studies and projects with faculty guidance.
• Additional Opportunities: Co-operative placements for work experience (e.g., Parliament Hill) and study abroad programs in over 45 destinations.

Outline:

Year 1 & 2:

• Foundational Courses: Political science history and theory, statistical analysis, research methodology.
• Civic and Intercultural Engagement: Activities to promote social responsibility.

Year 3 & 4:

• Special Topics Courses: Terrorism, international relations, and others.
• Debate and Discussion: Participation in a supportive environment.
• Research Opportunities: Directed independent studies and projects with faculty guidance.

Other:

• Co-operative placements for work experience.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Journalist, policy advisor, public administrator, campaign manager, international relations specialist, advocate, educator, labour relations specialist, lawyer, business professional.
• Further Education: Law school.
• WorkBC Forecast: Increased demand for professional social scientists in areas like government relations, research, and policy analysis.

Other:

• The University of the Fraser Valley is located at 33844 King Road, Abbotsford BC, Canada V2S 7M8.