Political Science - Bachelor of Arts
Overview
You are passionate about engaging with the complex and contested issues that societies and governments face, and you understand the important role politics plays in creating and resolving them. In this discipline, you will gain insight into the political process and how political systems work. You will take part in debates, discussions, and team-oriented academic activities and have the opportunity to strengthen your skills outside the classroom by participating in MacEwan University’s award-winning Model United Nations club. The program will sharpen your critical thinking, research, and communication skills to prepare you for careers in law, diplomacy, public policy, non-governmental sector management, journalism, and more. At the end of the program, you will have the knowledge and skill sets to think critically, but not cynically, about how competing interests are reconciled and collective decisions are made in Canada and around the world.
Contact Information
Department of Anthropology, Economics, and Political Science
Room 7-368, City Centre Campus
10700 - 104 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T5J 4S2
T: 780-633-3890
Arts and Science Academic Advising
Room 6-211, City Centre Campus
T: 780-497-4505
E: artsandscience@macewan.ca
The Bachelor of Arts
Faculty of Arts and Science
MacEwan.ca/BA
MacEwan University’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) is designed to provide a liberal arts education that allows students to explore a variety of academic disciplines and acquire a broad knowledge base that will prepare them for employment or future post-secondary studies. The degree is intended to provide students with breadth, depth, and diversity in the areas of humanities, sciences, social sciences, analytical studies, and fine arts as well as courses focused on language and literature. BA students study subjects in major and/or minor disciplines, and they are required to be familiar with the academic and faculty regulations and procedures as published herein.
General Program Information
The BA program requires students to complete 120 credits of non-duplicative coursework. The degree emphasizes both breadth and depth and has been designed for exceptional flexibility and customization. Students can complete a major and a minor, a double major, or a major and two minors.
Arts Disciplines
| Discipline | Major | Minor | Honours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology | ⦿ | ⦿ | ⦿ |
| Classics | - | ⦿ | - |
| Creative Writing | - | ⦿ | - |
| Economics | ⦿ | ⦿ | ⦿ |
| English | ⦿ | ⦿ | ⦿ |
| French | - | ⦿ | - |
| Gender Studies | - | ⦿ | - |
| History | ⦿ | ⦿ | - |
| Philosophy | ⦿ | ⦿ | - |
| Political Science | ⦿ | ⦿ | ⦿ |
| Psychology | ⦿ | ⦿ | ⦿ |
| Sociology | ⦿ | ⦿ | ⦿ |
| Spanish | - | ⦿ | - |
Science Minors
| Discipline | Minor |
|---|---|
| Biological Sciences | ⦿ |
| Chemistry | ⦿ |
| Computer Science | ⦿ |
| Earth and Planetary Sciences | ⦿ |
| Mathematics | ⦿ |
| Physics | ⦿ |
| Planetary Physics | ⦿ |
| Statistics | ⦿ |
Out of Faculty Minors
| Discipline | Minor |
|---|---|
| Accounting Minor for Arts and Science | ⦿ |
| Arts and Cultural Management | ⦿ |
| Business Law | ⦿ |
| Business Studies | ⦿ |
| Digital Experience Design | ⦿ |
| Finance Minor for Arts and Science | ⦿ |
| Human Resources Minor for Arts and Science | ⦿ |
| Marketing Minor for Arts and Science | ⦿ |
Preparing for Professional Studies
Students intending to enter professional programs at other universities, such as law and education, can take their pre-professional studies in the Faculty of Arts and Science at MacEwan University. For example, there is a selection of courses that may be taken to facilitate the transition to an after-degree education program or, if the student prefers, transfer to a Bachelor of Education program after completion of as many as 60 credits of coursework. Students are advised to consult the admissions requirements for the universities and programs of their choice, and to select their MacEwan University courses accordingly. Completion of pre-professional courses at MacEwan University does not guarantee admission to the subsequent professional program. Each professional program requires a separate application and entry is competitive, not automatic.
Degree Requirements
Breadth Requirements
All Bachelor of Arts degrees require Breadth Requirements. Courses can satisfy both the breadth requirements and requirements for the major(s), minor(s), Honours, or options.
| Breadth Element | Description | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Literacy | ENGL 102 and 3 credits in university English (not including ENGL 111, ENGL 108, or ENGL 211), and 6 credits in a single language other than English or 6 credits in world literature (COMP 102 and COMP 103) | 12 |
| Humanities | CLAS, HIST, HUMN, or PHIL | 6 |
| Sciences | ASTR, BICM, BIOL, BOTN, CHEM, CMPT, EASC, GENE, PHYS, PSYC, SCIE, or ZOOL | 6 |
| Social Sciences | ANTH, ECON, POLS, PSYC, or SOCI | 6 |
| Analytical Studies | LING 101, MATH, PHIL 125, or STAT | 3 |
| Fine Arts | AGAD, ARTE, CRWR, DESN, DRMA, MUSC, THAR, THPR, CLAS 252, CLAS 352, CLAS 353, or CLAS 356 | 3 |
Bachelor of Arts Degree
| Program Element | Description | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Major | The Arts major will range from 42 to 60 credits with a minimum 36 credits taken at the senior-level. | 42-60 |
| Secondary Major or Minor(s) | Students have the option of completing a second Arts major, or one or two minors. Minor courses must be completed at the senior-level. | 18-60 |
| Options | Students can complete up to 15 credits in out-of-faculty options, with no more than 3 credits in physical activity (PACT) courses. | Up to 60 |
| Total Degree Credits Including Breadth | 120 |
Bachelor of Arts Honours
| Program Element | Description | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Honour Requirements | Honours requirements are determined by each discipline. | 63 |
| Option Courses, Non-Compulsory Honours Courses, and/or a Minor | Students have the option of completing a minor from outside of the Honours discipline. Some disciplines may require a minor. | 57 |
| Total Degree Credits | 120 |
The minimum passing grade for a course at MacEwan University is a D unless otherwise noted next to the appropriate course in the program of study. In the Faculty of Arts and Science, students typically require a minimum grade of C- to use a course as a prerequisite. Please check course descriptions for more information.
Political Science Requirements
Political Science Major
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science program requires students to complete 120 credits of non-duplicative coursework. In addition to the Political Science Major, students will complete one of the following:
- one minor,
- two minors, or
- a secondary Arts major
Students are required to complete option courses as well as the major(s) and minor(s). All BA degrees require Breadth Requirements. Courses can satisfy both the breadth requirements and requirements for the major(s), minor(s), or options.
The Political Science Major is 42 to 60 non-duplicative political science credits with a minimum of 36 credits at the senior-level. Students must complete a minimum of 18 POLS credits at the 300-level or 400-level with a minimum of six POLS credits at the 400-level, including POLS 490.
POLS 221 and POLS 261 cannot be used to fulfill the senior-level POLS requirement.
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science Major
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Specific Major Requirements | ||
| POLS 101 | Introduction to Politics | 3 |
| POLS 200 | Comparative Political Systems | 3 |
| POLS 214 | History of Political Thought I | 3 |
| POLS 215 | History of Political Thought II | 3 |
| POLS 224 | Canadian National Government I | 3 |
| POLS 225 | Canadian National Government II | 3 |
| POLS 244 | Introduction to Policy Studies | 3 |
| POLS 264 | Introduction to Global Politics | 3 |
| POLS 490 | Advanced Study in Political Science | 3 |
| General Major Requirements | ||
| Choose 15 to 33 credits from junior-or senior-level POLS with a minimum of 15 POLS credits at the 300-level or 400-level including a minimum of three credits at the 400-level. | 15-33 | |
| Secondary Major or Minor(s) | ||
| Students have the option of completing a second Arts major, or one or two minors. Minor courses must be completed at the senior-level. | 18-60 | |
| Options | ||
| Students can complete up to 15 credits in out-of-faculty options, with no more than 3 credits in physical activity (PACT) courses. | 0-60 | |
| Total Credits | 120 | |
Political Science Honours
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) Political Science Honours degree program requires students to complete 120 credits of non-duplicative coursework. The Political Science Honours program is comprised of 33 credits designated as Specific Honours Requirements (including a 3-credit thesis course), 33 Honours Options, and 54 Options courses taken from outside POLS.
For consideration of admittance/acceptance into Political Science Honours, students must present the following:
- Completion of a minimum of 45 university-level credits applicable to the program of study, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
- 24 of the 45 credits must have been completed in the last 12 months
- A minimum of six POLS credits completed at the senior-level
- A minimum GPA of 3.3 across all senior-level POLS courses
Students accepted and enrolled in the Political Science Honours program must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. As well, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3 across all senior-level POLS courses for each 12 consecutive months following acceptance into the Honours program. Failure to do so will result in the student's program status reverting to a BA Political Science Major.
Students have the option of completing a minor within the requirements of the Political Science Honours program. Minors are comprised of 18 senior-level credits that are counted with the Options. All BA degrees, including Honours, require Breadth Requirements. Courses can satisfy both the breadth requirements and requirements for Honours, minor(s), or options.
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science Honours
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Specific Honours Requirements | 33 | |
| POLS 101 | Introduction to Politics | 3 |
| POLS 200 | Comparative Political Systems | 3 |
| POLS 214 | History of Political Thought I | 3 |
| POLS 215 | History of Political Thought II | 3 |
| POLS 224 | Canadian National Government I | 3 |
| POLS 225 | Canadian National Government II | 3 |
| POLS 244 | Introduction to Policy Studies | 3 |
| POLS 264 | Introduction to Global Politics | 3 |
| POLS 399 | Empirical Research Methods in Political Science | 3 |
| POLS 490 | Advanced Study in Political Science | 3 |
| POLS 499 | Honours Thesis | 3 |
| General Honours Requirements | ||
| Choose 33 credits from senior-level POLS courses with a minimum of 12 credits at the 300- or 400-level and a minimum of 3 credits at the 400-level. | 33 | |
| OPTIONS (may include 18 credit MINOR) | ||
| Students can complete up to 15 credits in out-of-faculty options, with no more than 3 credits in physical activity (PACT) courses. | 54 | |
| Total Credits | 120 | |
Political Science Minor
The Political Science Minor requires 18 senior-level POLS credits. A minimum of nine credits at the 200-level and a minimum of nine credits at the 300- or 400-level. POLS 221 and POLS 261 cannot be used to meet the minor requirements. Junior-level POLS 101 is not part of the Political Science Minor but may be a prerequisite for required minor courses. Note that 300- or 400-level courses in POLS often require multiple 200-level prerequisites.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Requirements | ||
| Choose 9 credits from 200-level POLS, and 9 credits from 300- or 400-level POLS. | 18 | |
| Total Credits | 18 | |
Degree Regulations
Students are strongly encouraged to seek advice from the academic advisors about academic planning for completing degree requirements at MacEwan University.
Academic Residency - Credit Requirements
In addition to the academic residency requirements of the University, Bachelor of Arts students also must complete at MacEwan University:
- A minimum of 24 credits at the senior-level in the major discipline, with 12 of those senior credits completed at the 300- or 400-level. All 400-level requirements are to be completed at MacEwan University.
- If applicable, a minimum of nine credits at the senior-level in a minor, with at least three of those credits at the 300- or 400- level.
Breadth Requirements
Courses taken to fulfil major, minor, or option requirements can also be used to satisfy breadth requirements.
Declaration of a Major and a Minor
Students are advised to declare a primary major and a minor, or a primary major and secondary major, or a primary major and two minors by the time they have completed 45 credits. Majors are selected from Arts disciplines and consist of 42 to 60 junior- and senior-level credits. With the exception of those students in an Honours program, a maximum of 60 credits may be completed from any one discipline for credit towards the degree. A major and minor cannot be in the same discipline and students may not declare more than one out-of-faculty minor. Students can re-declare their major(s) and/or minor(s) if required.
For students completing multiple majors or minors, the Faculty cannot guarantee a schedule of classes that will permit the student to complete their degree in eight consecutive fall and winter semesters. Furthermore, depending on the courses in which a student enrols, meeting the requirements of a double major may require the completion of more than 120 credits for graduation. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with a program advisor in the Program Services Office in the Faculty of Arts and Science and a discipline advisor in their major and minor disciplines prior to declaration.
Graduation Grade Point Average
As part of the Graduation Grade Point Average regulation above, Bachelor of Arts students must obtain an overall GGPA of 2.0 or higher, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on all courses credited toward the major(s) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 on all courses credited toward the minor(s).
Graduation Requirements
Graduation requirements are governed by the date on which students declare their major(s) and minor(s). Students who declare their major(s) and minor(s) up to and including February 15 are bound by the requirements of the current academic year. Those students who declare after February 15 are bound by the programs of study and degree requirements of the upcoming academic year as published in the MacEwan University Academic Calendar.
Junior- and Senior-Level Courses
Courses numbered from 100 to 199 are considered junior-level and courses numbered from 200 to 499 are considered senior-level.
Major or Minor 300- and 400-Level Requirements
The 300- and 400-level requirements in the major or minor cannot consist solely of project, field placement, and/or individual study courses.
Maximum Independent Courses
The maximum number of credits for independent work (project, field placement, and/or individual study courses), excluding the Honours Thesis, is 15 credits. Specific disciplines may have further restrictions.
Maximum Junior-Level Courses
A maximum of 48 credits at the 100-level are permitted in completion of the BA degree. Additional courses at the 100-level will be declared extra to the 120 credits required to complete the BA degree and will not be counted toward fulfilment of graduation requirements.
Minimum Arts Courses
Students are required to complete successfully a minimum of 72 credits from Arts courses.
Minimum Passing Grade
A minimum grade of D is required for all Arts degree courses unless otherwise noted next to the appropriate course in the program of study.
Minimum Transfer Grade for Credit
A minimum grade of D is required on any transfer credit granted for the program. Arts and Science courses require a minimum grade of C- when the course is used as a prerequisite. Transfer credit decisions made by the university are final and cannot be appealed.
Out-of-Faculty Options Requirements
Degree options may include a maximum of 15 credits from courses offered by a Faculty or School other than Arts and Science except for those students completing an out-of-faculty minor or those who have met the minor requirements with a diploma. These students must complete their degree options from courses offered within the Faculty of Arts and Science. Fine arts courses taken to fulfil breadth requirements do not count towards the allocation of out-of-faculty credit.
Progression of Studies
Students are responsible for ensuring they meet the prerequisite and/or co-requisite requirements as noted on all courses that may fulfil Bachelor of Arts or Arts Honours program requirements.
Honours Regulations
Overall Requirements
The Honours program of study consists of 63 to 84 credits as determined by the discipline. Students in the Honours program may choose to complete a minor outside of the Honours discipline. Some disciplines may require a minor.
Course Load
Students accepted into an Honours program must complete 24-credits in each twelve consecutive months they are in the program. Exceptions to this rule may occur with the approval of the Honours discipline advisor.
Grade Point Average Requirement
Students accepted and enrolled in the Arts Honours program must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. As well, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3 across a set of courses designated by each discipline for each twelve consecutive months following acceptance into the Honours program. Failure to do so will result in the student’s program status reverting to a BA with a major in the previous honours discipline.
Graduation Grade Point Average
In order to graduate, students must obtain an overall GGPA of 3.0 or higher, with a minimum GPA of 3.3 across a set of courses designated by each discipline.
Additional Degree Regulations - Subsequent Baccalaureate
In addition to meeting the degree regulations listed above, students who already hold a baccalaureate degree must satisfy policies pertaining to subsequent baccalaureate credentials.
Political Science Courses
POLS 101
Introduction to Politics
3 Credits
This course provides an introduction to a systematic study of the primary institutions and processes of modern government and the discipline of political science. Students explore the significant concepts, methods, approaches, and issues of the discipline, considered necessary for the study of politics. Topics include political power, political authority, sovereignty and the state, the nation, constitutionalism, international relations, political ideology, elections, and electoral systems, democracy, and totalitarianism. Note: this course is the prerequisite for most second year Political Science courses.
POLS 200
Comparative Political Systems
3 Credits
This course introduces the concepts, methods and substance of the field of comparative politics, covering selected developed and developing countries. Contemporary politics of the selected countries will be studied in their historical, social, and cultural contexts. Political and governmental institutions and public policies of the selected countries will be examined in relation to their responses to changing domestic and global environments. This is a core course in the field of comparative politics and a prerequisite for most 300- and 400-level courses in the field.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 101.
POLS 214
History of Political Thought I
3 Credits
This course introduces students to classical and medieval political thought through the careful reading of primary texts. Authors studied may vary from year to year and section to section, but each is considered somehow representative or thematically significant to the period in question. Names typically examined include Homer, Aristophanes, Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, St. Augustine, and Thomas Aquinas. Note: This is a core course in the field of political philosophy.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 101.
POLS 215
History of Political Thought II
3 Credits
Building upon the skills and knowledge acquired in POLS 214, this course introduces students to modern political thought through the careful reading of primary texts. Authors typically include some of the following: Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Kant, Hegel, Mill, and Nietzsche. Authors may vary from year to year and section to section, but each is considered somehow representative or thematically significant to the period in question. Note: This is a core course in the field of political philosophy.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 214.
POLS 221
Canadian Political Realities
3 Credits
This course is an introductory course in Canadian politics designed for students who do not intend to take more senior courses in the field of Canadian politics. The course involves study of the politics of institutions and the processes of the government of Canada. Students demonstrate understanding of the major challenges facing Canada in its political development. Note:This course does not count toward the senior level credit requirement for the major/minor or honours.
POLS 224
Canadian National Government I
3 Credits
POLS 224 and 225 are the core courses in the field of Canadian politics, introducing students to the institutions, processes, concepts and important issues of this subject area. Topics include the Constitution and federalism, region and province, French Canada and Quebec, Indigenous peoples, ethnicity, immigration and multiculturalism, gender, class, and Canada's role in the world.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 101.
POLS 225
Canadian National Government II
3 Credits
POLS 224 and 225 are the core courses in the field of Canadian politics, introducing students to the institutions, processes, concepts and important issues of this subject area. Topics include the political process, political parties, elections and representation, Parliament, the executive, bureaucracy, the judiciary, and fiscal, economic and other policy issues in Canada.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 224.
POLS 244
Introduction to Policy Studies
3 Credits
This course introduces students to the process and practice of policy making in modern governments. It examines the key actors, institutions and dynamics involved in policy making. It covers different aspects of policy making, including government agenda-setting and decision making, the tools governments use to address pressing societal issues and achieve their goals, and how governments implement and evaluate those policies. Particular attention is paid to the changing context in which policy making occurs and the current challenges and opportunities policy makers face.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 101.
POLS 261
Asia Pacific Political Systems
3 Credits
The purpose of this survey course is to introduce students to the political systems of ten Asia-Pacific countries: China, including Hong Kong and Taiwan, Brunei; Indonesia; Singapore; Malaysia; The Philippines; Japan; South Korea; Thailand; and Vietnam. This dynamic region of the world exhibits a range of political systems, from constitutional monarchies to one-party dominant states. This course emphasizes the linkages between the economic and political development and the cultural catalysts and obstacles to both processes. The processes of regional and global economic integration of the countries in the region are discussed. The course explores other topics such as the following: constitutional development, legislature, political executive, judiciary, political culture and socialization, political parties and pressure groups, public opinion and the mass media, public enterprises and bureaucracy; and foreign policy. Note: This course does not count toward the senior level credit requirement for the major/minor or honours.
POLS 264
Introduction to Global Politics
3 Credits
This course introduces students to the study of global politics. Topics include the theories of international relations, the dynamics of interaction among states and non-state actors, the nature of power, globalization, foreign policy, war and peace, international political economy, international organizations and, international law.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 101, or second-year standing.
POLS 265
Introduction to Global Politics II
3 Credits
This course examines major issues in the global political economy and global governance. Topics include the theoretical approaches to international political economy, international trade, global finance, multinational corporations, international development assistance, North-South relations, migration, the UN and global governance, international law, regional integration, the environment, international terrorism, and human rights.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 264.
POLS 304
Topics in European Politics
3 Credits
This course focuses on the analysis of selected issues in European Politics. It includes theoretical, empirical, institutional, and policy analysis, as well as a research component. For detailed information concerning the current course offering please consult the department. Note: This course can be taken up to two times, provided the course topic is different.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 200.
POLS 307
Continental Political Thought
3 Credits
This course carefully examines the major themes that develop within the tradition of 19th and 20th century Continental Political Thought beginning with German Idealism and ending with Existentialism. Authors to be studied may include Immanuel Kant, G.W.F. Hegel, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Martin Heidegger.
Prerequisites: minimum grade of C- in POLS 214 and 215, or consent of the department.
POLS 308
Political Thought of the Enlightenment
3 Credits
This course introduces students to the central works in political philosophy of the Enlightenment. In studying classic texts from the French, British, and American Enlightenments, the course further aims to discern, within these texts, the intellectual sources of liberal modernity. Students study the work of some of the following: Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Adam Smith, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Montesquieu, Benjamin Constant, The Federalist, Thomas Jefferson and Alexis de Tocqueville.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 214 and POLS 215.
POLS 309
Ancient Political Philosophy
3 Credits
This course carefully examines one or more of the classic texts of ancient political philosophy. The course is organized around a major concern of ancient political philosophy. Potential topics include the nature of political community, sources of civic virtue, rhetoric, classic natural right, and the relationship of philosophy to politics. Addressing these topics entails the careful study of major texts by some of the following: Plato, Xenophon, Aristotle, Cicero, Lucretius and St. Augustine.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 214 and 215, or consent of the department.
POLS 315
Contemporary Liberal Thought
3 Credits
This course is devoted to the exploration of contemporary liberal political thought. It covers selected readings from recent liberal philosophers and their critics, as well as considering debates about the values of liberalism in their application to public issues such as distributive justice, multiculturalism, and religion in society.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 214 and 215, or consent of the department.
POLS 316
Political Thought After Nietzsche
3 Credits
This course focuses on the close reading of selected texts in 20th century thought that attempt to come to grips with Nietzsche’s fundamental criticism of enlightenment rationality as the foundation for a democratic political order. Special attention is paid to those authors, largely German, who chart an alternative course to French postmodernism. Authors to be discussed may include: Edmund Husserl, Martin Heidegger, Leo Strauss, Hans-georg Gadamer, Hannah Arendt, Reinhold Neibuhr, Emmanuel Levinas, and Alasdair MacIntyre.
Prerequisites: C- in POLS 214 and POLS 215 or consent of the department.
POLS 321
Introduction to Public Administration
3 Credits
This course explores the theoretical foundations and contemporary practice of public management and governance in Canada. This includes identifying institutions and processes through which public administration is conducted and assessing how public servants contribute to democratic governance. Major themes and debates within the field are discussed as well as the practical issues public servants face and the changing environment within which they work. The course primarily focuses on the federal government, but includes discussion of public administration in provincial, municipal and Indigenous governments.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 244 or consent of the department.
POLS 324
Topics in Canadian Politics
3 Credits
This course is devoted to the detailed study of a single topic area in Canadian politics. Examples of topic areas include democracy and democratic reform, electoral politics and political parties, Canadian political thought, the Charter of Rights and judicial review, public policy, political cleavages in Canada, the politics of environmentalism, local government, and media and politics. Students may take this course up to two times provided the topic is different.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 224 and 225, or consent of the department.
POLS 326
The Canadian Constitution
3 Credits
This course is devoted to the exploration of Canada's legal and constitutional system and the role and impact of Canada's constitution in our politics and culture.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 224 and 225, or consent of the department.
POLS 327
Politics of Identity in Canada
3 Credits
This course is devoted to the exploration of the role of identities in Canadian politics. Among the core areas of interest in this area are questions about the relationship of indigenous peoples to the state, the role and cultural influence of the country's earliest settlement groups, regional and provincial sources of identity, ethnicity, immigration and multiculturalism, gender, socio-economic class and emergent forms of politically salient identity, and Canadian national identity.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 224 and POLS 225.
POLS 329
Canadian Federalism
3 Credits
This course is devoted to the systematic study of the evolution, institutions, challenges, and theoretical underpinnings of the Canadian Federal system.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 224 and POLS 225.
POLS 343
Environmental Policy and Politics
3 Credits
This course offers an examination of environmental issues in Canada, one of the most rapidly-developing policy fields in the last half century. The course focuses on a range of issues related to the natural environment by exploring the salient actors in environmental politics, the institutions and processes used to develop environmental policies, and how environmental issues are defined and understood by different political ideologies.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 244 or consent of the department.
POLS 344
Fundamentals of Policy Analysis
3 Credits
This course applies economic concepts and techniques to practical policy problems that governments face, including the provision of public goods and the regulation of private individuals and businesses. Students will learn how to conduct different types of economic analyses that assist governments in deciding when and where to address a problem and how to choose between different solutions. This course provides students with an entry point to the profession of policy analysis. Note: Students can only receive credit for one of ECON 344 or POLS 344.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 244 or consent of the department.
POLS 345
Issues in Globalization and Governance
3 Credits
This course offers a comprehensive study of some of the major issues in the areas of Globalization and Global Governance. Topics include: Global Governance theory, the Global Political Economy, Global Security Challenges, the Global Financial System, the Global Civic Ethic, Poverty and Globalization, UN Reform, and the Global Environmental Challenge.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 264.
POLS 349
Topics in Global Politics
3 Credits
The course covers current controversial issues in global politics. Selected topics include the international political economy, the international strategic system, global challenges, and international relations theory.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 264.
POLS 357
The Third World in Global Politics
3 Credits
This course assesses challenges facing the Third World in the global economy. Students focus on the specific constraints faced by the developing countries in the era of globalization, while assessing opportunities and options for overcoming the structural constraints. The institutional underpinnings of the Third World movement - the non-aligned movement and the group of 77 - as well as the specific regional and interregional responses to globalization are analyzed.
POLS 361
Conflicts and Civil Wars in International Relations
3 Credits
Large-scale violence associated with interstate and intrastate conflict and war continues to have undeniable relevance for all of humanity. Given the rise of ethnic conflicts in Europe and proliferation of advanced weapons technology worldwide, providing answers to pressing questions about the onset and escalation of war is imperative in the aftermath of the Cold War. This course examines the theoretical and empirical knowledge on the causes of interstate wars and civil wars.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 264.
POLS 362
Pursuit of Peace in Global Politics
3 Credits
A dominant feature of the post-World War II international system is the willingness of states and international organizations to intervene, often forcefully, to manage conflicts. This course examines the theoretical and empirical foundations of the study of conflict management since the end of the Second World War.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 264.
POLS 364
International Political Economy
3 Credits
This is a critical examination of the conjunction of a series of market and political issues in international affairs, including the major facets of globalization. The course uses major theoretical perspectives to explain the intersection of states and markets in the global economy. Topics include: the global trading system, foreign direct investment, foreign portfolio investment, international debt problems, the impact of the international financial institutions, North-South relations, and balancing development with environmental protection.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 264.
POLS 365
Canadian Foreign Policy
3 Credits
This is an overview of the significant post-Second World War developments in Canadian foreign policy. This course assesses Canada's foreign policy priorities, orientations and sources. Topics addressed include the following: Canadian security, development assistance, role in international organizations, Canada and the global economy, the human security agenda, and the role of non-governmental organizations in shaping Canadian foreign policy.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 264.
POLS 368
International Organization
3 Credits
This course examines the theoretical and empirical evolution of International Organizations. The course includes an active learning component, using simulation of the United Nations and/or other intergovernmental organizations. It deals with global governance as well as specific issue-areas such as human rights, peace, disarmament, development, and the environment. Students cannot receive credit for both POLS 368 and POLS 468.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 264 or consent of the department.
POLS 370
American Politics
3 Credits
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the American political system through the study of the institutional framework of the three separate federal branches, the motivation behind its organization, and the way political actors’ and political institutions’ interaction are shaped by this organizational structure. This course is appropriate for political science majors who wish to gain a foundation and a better understanding of American politics.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 200 or consent of the department.
POLS 371
Politics in China
3 Credits
This course examines Chinese politics in its historical, cultural, social, and global settings. The focus of this course is on the responses of China's political system to its domestic and international challenges in the modern time.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 200 or POLS 261 or POLS 263.
POLS 373
Politics in India
3 Credits
This course examines the Indian political system in its historical, cultural, social, and global settings. The responses of India's contemporary political system to its domestic and international challenges are studied in combination with the impact of India's colonial experience.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 200 or POLS 261 or POLS 263.
POLS 375
Politics of East Asia
3 Credits
This course provides comparative studies and analyses of politics of East Asia. Focused topics include politics of China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. Comparisons and analyses cover a variety of subjects such as political institutions and processes, ideologies, and public policies.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 200 or consent of the department.
POLS 376
Issues in Development Studies
3 Credits
This course provides an understanding of the core theoretical and practical development-related issues confronting countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It presents the contending development theories, while focusing on the significant development challenges facing the developing countries - both domestic and global.
POLS 398
Independent Study
3 Credits
This course permits an intermediate-level student to work with an instructor to explore a specific topic in depth through research or directed reading in primary and secondary sources. The student plans, executes and reports the results of their independent research or study project under the direction of a faculty supervisor. To be granted enrollment in the course, the student must have made prior arrangements with a faculty member willing to supervise the student’s project.
POLS 399
Empirical Research Methods in Political Science
3 Credits
This course is a general introduction to empirical research methods in Political Science. Students learn the logic and working assumptions behind empirical research in Political Science, and gain practice with those methods to ask and answer specific research questions in Political Science using a statistical software.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 101 and 6 credits of 200-level POLS courses.
POLS 410
Topics in Political Philosophy
3 Credits
This is a seminar course for students interested in advanced study of specialized areas of political philosophy. This course is devoted to the detailed study of a single topic. Examples of topics include the following: virtue and politics, theories of the State, the limits of reason, and problems of political community. Students may take this course up to two times provided the topic is different.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 214 and POLS 215, or consent of the department.
POLS 424
Advanced Topics in Canadian Politics
3 Credits
This is a seminar course for students interested in advanced study of specialized areas of Canadian politics. This course is devoted to the detailed study of a single topic area. Examples of topic areas include democracy and democratic reform, electoral politics and political parties, Canadian political thought, the Charter of Rights and judicial review, political cleavages in Canada, the politics of environmentalism, and the media and politics in Canada.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 225.
POLS 426
Canadian Law and Politics
3 Credits
This course is devoted to the systematic study of the issues, history, and scholarly commentary associated with law, politics, and the judicial process in Canada. The course includes consideration of topics such as legal theory, judicial politics and issues of judicial selection and appointment, the implications of rights review for democracy, and core cases in constitutional litigation. The course concludes with student participation in a simulated legal case on a constitutional issue.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 326 or POLS 329 or consent of the department.
POLS 444
Topics in Policy Studies
3 Credits
This is a seminar course for students interested in specialized topics within policy studies. The course provides an in-depth and detailed examination of a single topic. Students will develop expertise in a specific area that can build a foundation for graduate studies or employment. Potential topics include public governance, theories of the policy process, specific policy dynamics such as networks, learning or agenda-setting and policy areas like climate change, health, social or economic policy. The instructor chooses the topic in any given semester. Students can take this course up to two times, provided the course topic is different.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 244.
POLS 461
Selected Topics in International Politics
3 Credits
This course focuses on selected contemporary topics in the sub-fields of international relations. Students undertake a detailed analysis of a specific topic. The instructor chooses the topic in any given semester. Students can take this course up to two times, provided the course topic is different.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C- in POLS 264.
POLS 470
Selected Topics in Comparative Politics
3 Credits
This course focuses on the analysis of advanced topics in Comparative Politics. It includes theoretical, empirical, institutional, and policy analysis, as well as a research component. For detailed information concerning the current course offering please consult the department. Note: This course can be taken up to two times, provided the course topic is different.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in POLS 200.
POLS 471
Comparative Development
3 Credits
This seminar compares politics of two developing countries: China and India. The course addresses the distinctive developmental issues and common political challenges facing both countries and distinctive developmental issues in each of these countries. Theoretical perspectives on political development are examined.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in any of POLS 371,373, 375 and 376.
POLS 490
Advanced Study in Political Science
3 Credits
This course focuses on the analysis of selected issues in the fields of Canadian Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Policy Studies, or Political Philosophy. It includes a detailed research component. This is a required course in the Political Science major. Note: This course may be taken up to two times provided the course topic is different.
Prerequisites: Minimum grades of C- in POLS 200, POLS 214, POLS 215, POLS 224, POLS 225, POLS 244, and POLS 264, or consent of the department.
POLS 498
Advanced Independent Study
3 Credits
This course permits a senior-level student to work with an instructor to explore a specific topic in depth through research or directed reading in primary and secondary sources. The student plans, executes and reports the results of their independent research or study project under the direction of a faculty supervisor. To be granted enrollment in the course, the student must have made prior arrangements with a faculty member willing to supervise the student’s project.
Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.
POLS 499
Honours Thesis
3 Credits
Under the direction of a faculty supervisor registered students conduct a research project culminating in a written Honours Thesis with oral defense. This course is restricted to students in the Honours Political Science Program and may only be taken in their final year of the program.
Prerequisites: Consent of the department.
Expected Course Offerings
Following is a list of expected course offerings for the fall and winter terms of 2021-22 and 2022-23. While some might change, students can be assured that required courses will be available.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | ||
| Introduction to Politics | ||
| Comparative Political Systems | ||
| History of Political Thought I | ||
| Canadian National Government I | ||
| Introduction to Policy Studies | ||
| Introduction to Global Politics | ||
| Ancient Political Philosophy | ||
| Introduction to Public Administration | ||
| Topics in Global Politics | ||
| American Politics | ||
| Empirical Research Methods in Political Science | ||
| Selected Topics in International Politics | ||
| Comparative Development | ||
| Advanced Study in Political Science | ||
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Winter 2022 | ||
| Introduction to Politics | ||
| Comparative Political Systems | ||
| History of Political Thought II | ||
| Canadian National Government II | ||
| Introduction to Global Politics | ||
| Topics in European Politics | ||
| Canadian Federalism | ||
| Fundamentals of Policy Analysis | ||
| International Organization | ||
| Politics in China | ||
| Topics in Policy Studies | ||
| Selected Topics in International Politics | ||
| Advanced Study in Political Science | ||
In addition to the specific courses listed below, Political Science typically offers an additional five 300- or 400-level courses across a range of subfields each year. Specific topics will vary depending on instructor availability and current events (see full POLS course listings for examples of additional courses offered), but students can be assured that required courses will be available.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2022 | ||
| Introduction to Politics | ||
| Comparative Political Systems | ||
| History of Political Thought I | ||
| Canadian National Government I | ||
| Introduction to Policy Studies | ||
| Introduction to Global Politics | ||
| Continental Political Thought | ||
| Topics in Canadian Politics | ||
| Topics in Global Politics | ||
| Empirical Research Methods in Political Science | ||
| Selected Topics in International Politics | ||
| Advanced Study in Political Science | ||
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Winter 2023 | ||
| Introduction to Politics | ||
| Comparative Political Systems | ||
| History of Political Thought II | ||
| Canadian National Government II | ||
| Introduction to Global Politics | ||
| Topics in European Politics | ||
| Fundamentals of Policy Analysis | ||
| Topics in Political Philosophy | ||
| Selected Topics in International Politics | ||
| Selected Topics in Comparative Politics | ||
| Advanced Study in Political Science | ||
Admission Requirements
Applicants may be admitted to one of the following:
Regular Admission
To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar
Applicants must have a minimum overall average of 65 percent, with no course grade lower than 50 percent, in the following high school courses:
- ELA 30-1
- Four subjects from Group A, B, C, or D
Notes:
- Applicants are strongly encouraged to present a broad range of subjects in order to benefit from the breadth of learning and to increase flexibility of future program and course choices.
- A maximum of two Group B subjects may be presented; they must be from different disciplines.
- A maximum of one Group D subject may be presented. Group D subjects used for admission must be 5-credit or any credit combination of at least 5 credits (e.g., two 3-credit subjects).
- Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 is required for a major in Economics.
- Mathematics 30-1 or 31 is required for Economics Honours.
- Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 is required for a major in Psychology.
Applicants with nine to 23 university-level credits must also present a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with 24 or more university-level credits will be considered under Previous Post-Secondary Work.
Mature Admission
To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar
Applicants must be Canadian Applicants, 20 years of age or older, and have been out of full-time high school at least one year by the beginning of the intake term. Applicants must have the following:
- ELA 30-1 with a minimum grade of 65 percent (or equivalent)
OR
- Three credits of university-level English, including ENGL 111 from MacEwan University, with a minimum grade of C.
Applicants with nine to 23 university-level credits must also present a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with 24 or more university-level credits will be considered under Previous Post-Secondary Work.
Previous Post-Secondary Work
To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar
Admission in this category does not imply or guarantee the transfer of any coursework and/or credential unless a block transfer agreement (internal or external) is in effect and published in the calendar by the Office of the University Registrar. In addition, transfer of coursework does not imply or guarantee that an applicant will be admitted.
Applicants must have successfully completed the following from a recognized institution:
- A minimum of 24 university-level credits with a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Additional Admission Criteria
All applicants must meet the following:
1. English Language Proficiency
To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar
Applicable to all admission categories
All applicants must meet an acceptable level of English language proficiency. We will require official documents such as high school or post-secondary transcripts or proof of successful completion of standardized language evaluation. Full details are available in MacEwan University’s academic calendar or online at MacEwan.ca/ELP.
2. Other Admission Criteria
To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar
Applicable to all admission categories
Applicants who have been assigned two unsatisfactory academic records within the past five years will not be considered for admission or re-admission to the program until a minimum three years from the date of the assignment of the last unsatisfactory academic record. For the purpose of admission or re-admission, an unsatisfactory record is defined as a transcript with the notation ‘required to withdraw’ or equivalent.