Political Science

The MA program offers opportunities for focused graduate-level study and learning in all aspects of politics. Students have the option of concentrating their courses and research on specific aspects of political science – including Canadian Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Public Policy, and Political Theory – or taking a wide range of courses across these fields. During the program, students will have access to faculty for one-on-one research supervision, as well as to the lively research community within the department. A co-op option is available.

A collaborative specialization in African Studies and Latin American and Caribbean Studies are also available.

Capital Advantage

Carleton’s location in the nation’s capital places you in the heart of the country’s political process, giving you unparalleled access to resources and career opportunities unavailable elsewhere in the country. Carleton students enjoy easy access to Canada’s federal government and can tour Parliament Hill, visit the Library of Parliament, attend Parliament when it is in session and volunteer or work for government departments and agencies located in the city. Ottawa is also home to 11 national museums, Library and Archives Canada, more than 900 national and international associations and a multitude of high commissions and foreign embassies.

Faculty Research Highlights

• Fiona Robinson has published extensively on the global ethics of care
• William Cross specializes in political parties and legislative politics in Westminster-style democracies
• Laura Macdonald conducts research on North American politics
• Waller Newell’s work examines the insights of political philosophy for questions of political leadership
• Vandna Bhatia’s research focuses on the public policy choices associated with healthcare in Canada in a comparative context