Political Science
What we offer academically
Our department caters to two main types of students: Those interested in graduating with a degree in political science and those interested in complementing the education they acquire in other areas with some helpful knowledge of the political world.
The Department of Political Science offers graduation with a BA Minor in Political Science.
The Department also offers graduation with an Associate of Arts in Political Science diploma. Obtaining this degree is optional, but recommended for the purpose of an easy and smooth transfer to the BC universities political science and international relations programs.
All our courses are reading, writing, and research intensive (for transferability status please refer to the transfer guide).
We offer two main types of political science streams: A general curriculum and a focused, specialised one. In other words, students may choose to explore political science by taking an eclectic selection of courses. This is the "generalist's" approach. However, students with particular interests may sharpen their focus in two main areas: Canadian politics, and international studies including international political economy, transborder studies (Pacific Northwest Canadian Studies Consortium and Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER)), European integration, and human security.
All our courses qualify as Liberal Education (LBED) credits, so you are invited to have a glimpse into the political world in your own way while completing a Kwantlen degree in business, nursing, psychology, journalism, etc., or earning either a diploma or certificate in, for instance, environmental studies, tourism, etc.
The Department has established a research and education centre—The Institute for Transborder Studies (ITS).
What we require academically
We require that all students take a minimum of some political science introductory courses as pre-requisites to qualify to continue with our second year selection.
We require that all students have completed the First Year Experience course parallel to their first political science course.
We consider politics a most serious matter and so we take our teaching and education mission earnestly and provide it in the most professional manner. Consequently, we spare no effort in guiding and coaching our students in the labyrinth of political science yet we also expect our students to study diligently. This is our teacher–student covenant.
What both you and we gain
You will gain knowledge and understanding of politics and political science. We hope you will use these assets to make informed decisions and form informed opinions.
You gain the opportunity to acquire an undergraduate degree in a field that serves as excellent preparation for work in government, international organizations, diplomacy, and political organizations; as well as for further degrees in law, Political Science, or public administration.
You will gain the skills of reading comprehension at a scholarly level, preparing reports, conducting research, writing essays that are persuasive and critical, and delivering pointed oral presentations.
We will gain the satisfaction that comes with the knowledge that together with our students, we have accomplished yet some additional progress in human and civil growth.
We will gain the pride that follows seeing our graduates prosper, succeed, and excel outside of Kwantlen.
