Your degree in Political Science

Skills you’ll developAnchor link

While studying Political Science, you’ll develop important skills as you examine the nature, causes, and consequences of collective decisions and actions taken by groups of people embedded in cultures and institutions that structure power and authority.

These skills may include:

• Applying analytical thinking to questions of how societies govern themselves and address problems of power locally, nationally, and globally
• Collaborating with others to study forces that shape law, society, the economy, and the politics of the future
• Examining problems and proposing solutions while considering multiple perspectives
• Recognizing and considering the impact of a variety of influences, assumptions, and values
• Conducting qualitative and quantitative, collecting data, interpreting statistics, synthesizing facts, and presenting arguments
• Communicating – clearly, concisely, and in writing – in a way that draws on a deep theoretical and practical understanding of Canadian and international political systems
• Persuasive public speaking and debating abilities that demonstrate critical thinking and carefully reasoned arguments

Career possibilitiesAnchor link

Career opportunities vary widely across a range of fields including government or politics, non-profit, law, journalism, public relations, international development, consulting, education, and others.

There are many career paths that can combine your academics, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas. Some career options may require further education or training.

Visit the National Occupational Classification website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field.

Make the most of your programAnchor link

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities and help you understand your values and interests.

• UBC Political Science Students’ Association
  Meet other UBC students through events and programs. 
• Model United Nations Student Association at UBC
  Collaborate with other students to propose resolutions to global issues through United Nations-style simulations.
• UBC Model Parliament 
  Research and debate public policy in Term 2 through this snapshot experience of the Canadian Parliamentary system.
• Political Science co-op success stories
  Learn about the experiences of past and present co-op students from your program and others.
• Departmental events
  Network with Political Science students and faculty members at a variety of events.
• Departmental research opportunities
  Reach out directly to faculty members to ask about potential research positions.
• UBC Journal of Political Studies
  Showcase your research by submitting papers to be published in a peer-reviewed journal.
• Arts Co-op Program
  Gain paid work experience in your area of study as part of your degree program
• Go Global
  Learn about international opportunities recommended by the Political Science department.
• European Union Study Tour and Internship Program
  Apply in Term 1 to visit major institutions and learn about the evolution and current issues of the European Union.
• NATO Field School and Simulation Program
  Dive into this experiential learning opportunity and gain course credit over the summer.
• Volunteer and internship opportunities
  Browse various resources to gain local and international experience.
• Young Canada Works in Heritage Organizations
  Develop new skills and gain practical knowledge in a heritage field over the summer.
• Canada Summer Jobs Program
  Check out summer jobs for full-time students.
• Federal Student Work Experience Program
  Apply for government positions across Canada through this student recruitment initiative
• Parliamentary Internship Programme
  Shadow a Member of Parliament over 10 months, available for recent graduates.
• BC Legislative Internship Program
  Assist a Member of the Legislative Assembly and observe the daily workings of the BC Legislature, available for recent graduates.
• Ontario Legislature Internship Programme
  If you’ve recently graduated, gain practical experience with the daily workings of the Ontario Legislature.
• Council of the Federation Youth Internship Program
  Gain experience working in Canadian intergovernmental relations after graduating.

Build your networkAnchor link

Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you. You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.

The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and finding job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.

• American Political Science Association
• Assembly of First Nations
• Association of Canadian Studies
• BC Economic Development Association
• BC Political Studies Association
• BC Public Service
• Canada World Youth
• Canadian Association for the Study of International Development
• Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives
• Canadian Foreign Service Institute
• Canadian Political Science Association
• Canadian Public Relations Society
• Cooperation Canada
• First Peoples’ Cultural Council
• Global Affairs Canada
• Government of Canada
• Institute for Research on Public Policy
• International Development Research Centre
• International Political Science Association
• NATO Association of Canada
• United Nations

Connect with alumni on LinkedInAnchor link

Find UBC Political Science graduates on LinkedIn to learn about where they’re working, and their career and academic paths.

More informationAnchor link

From your Arts degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Arts degree.