At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 4 coursesCourse Requirement
- Thesis completionProgram Culmination
- 2 out of 4 core fieldsBreadth Requirement
- Optional directed readingsPersonalized Research
- Cross-listed coursesInterdisciplinary Options
The MA in Political Science program offers a comprehensive graduate education focused on developing a deep understanding of core areas within the discipline. Students are required to complete four one-semester courses, typically taken two per semester over two semesters. The program encourages a broad knowledge base by requiring study in at least two of the four main areas: international relations, Canadian politics, comparative politics, and political theory. Students can further specialize by choosing electives, including graduate seminars in political science or other departments, senior undergraduate courses, or directed readings closely aligned with their thesis research. The program culminates in a thesis, which students usually complete during the summer term. Year-round registration is mandatory for graduate students, with POLI 599 (thesis) used to maintain full-time status if no other courses are taken. While students may temporarily withdraw for up to three terms, continuous registration and fee payment are required to graduate. Students work closely with the graduate advisor to plan their course selection and program, ensuring all requirements are met. Support is available through the graduate handbook, the Faculty of Graduate Studies, and the Academic Calendar.
Curriculum
The program requires completion of four one-semester courses. Students typically take two courses per semester. The thesis is usually completed over the summer term.
- Year 1
- Political Science Seminar (Field 1)
- Political Science Seminar (Field 2)
- Political Science Seminar or Elective
- Fourth Course (Political Science Seminar, Interdisciplinary Seminar, Senior Undergraduate, or Directed Readings)POLI 590
- Summer
- ThesisPOLI 599
Careers
A Master's degree in Political Science equips graduates with advanced analytical, research, and communication skills applicable to a wide range of career paths.
- Policy Analyst
- Political Advisor
- Researcher
- Government Official
- International Relations Specialist
- Journalist
- Non-profit Sector
- Higher Education
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MA in Political Science program?
- You need an undergraduate degree with a minimum B+ average on the last two years of coursework for fellowship consideration. International applicants must also meet English language proficiency requirements, such as an IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 90 (Internet-based).
- How is tuition assessed for this Master's program?
- Graduate students pay program-assessed fees, not per-course tuition. Fees are charged in installments each term (September, January, May), and most Master's programs require a minimum of 5.0 fee installments.
- What is the program structure and duration?
- The program requires completion of four one-semester courses, typically taken two per semester over two semesters. The program culminates in a thesis, usually completed during the summer term.
- How do I apply to the MA in Political Science program?
- You can apply through the University of Victoria's graduate admissions portal, submitting an online application form, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, and a CV/resume by the December 15th deadline for Fall admission.
- Are there any scholarships or funding opportunities available?
- UVic offers merit-based fellowships of up to $20,000 per year for students with high academic standing, considered automatically upon application. Teaching and Research Assistantships are also available to graduate students.
- What are the career prospects after completing the MA in Political Science?
- Graduates are equipped for roles such as Policy Analyst, Political Advisor, Researcher, Government Official, International Relations Specialist, Journalist, or work in the non-profit sector and higher education.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA minimum B+ average on the last two years of coursework is required for UVic fellowship consideration. Specific program admission requirements may vary.
IELTS6.5 overall
TOEFL90 (Internet-based)
International applicants must meet both academic and English language proficiency requirements. Specific program admission requirements should be checked with the department.
Fees
Tuition (international)Graduate students pay program-assessed fees, not per-course tuition. Fees are charged in installments each term (September, January, May). Most Master's programs require a minimum of 5.0 fee installments.
Tuition (home)Graduate students pay program-assessed fees, not per-course tuition. Fees are charged in installments each term (September, January, May). Most Master's programs require a minimum of 5.0 fee installments.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified on the provided pages.
Tuition fees are divided into installments and charged each term. Ancillary fees for services like U-Pass, health insurance, and recreation are charged in addition to tuition. International students have mandatory medical insurance requirements.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form for graduate studies.
2. Provide Academic TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
3. English Language ProficiencyProvide proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL scores).
4. ReferencesArrange for academic references to submit letters of recommendation.
5. Statement of Intent/Research InterestsClearly outline your academic background, research interests, and reasons for pursuing the MA in Political Science at UVic.
6. CV/ResumeSubmit an updated Curriculum Vitae or resume.
7. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
Scholarships
UVic FellowshipsUp to $20,000 per year
Teaching Assistantships (TA)—
Research Assistantships (RA)—
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MA in Political Science program?
+
You need an undergraduate degree with a minimum B+ average on the last two years of coursework for fellowship consideration. International applicants must also meet English language proficiency requirements, such as an IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 90 (Internet-based).
How is tuition assessed for this Master's program?
+
Graduate students pay program-assessed fees, not per-course tuition. Fees are charged in installments each term (September, January, May), and most Master's programs require a minimum of 5.0 fee installments.
What is the program structure and duration?
+
The program requires completion of four one-semester courses, typically taken two per semester over two semesters. The program culminates in a thesis, usually completed during the summer term.
How do I apply to the MA in Political Science program?
+
You can apply through the University of Victoria's graduate admissions portal, submitting an online application form, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, and a CV/resume by the December 15th deadline for Fall admission.
Are there any scholarships or funding opportunities available?
+
UVic offers merit-based fellowships of up to $20,000 per year for students with high academic standing, considered automatically upon application. Teaching and Research Assistantships are also available to graduate students.
What are the career prospects after completing the MA in Political Science?
+
Graduates are equipped for roles such as Policy Analyst, Political Advisor, Researcher, Government Official, International Relations Specialist, Journalist, or work in the non-profit sector and higher education.