Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Honours)

In the Political Science program, you will examine such topics of study as international relations, transitions to democracy, parties and elections, globalization and social movements, and the culture and ideas of politics. You can focus on one of eight areas of study: Canadian Politics, Comparative Politics and Area Studies (Global North), Comparative Politics and Area Studies (Global South), Gender and Politics, International Relations, North American Politics, Political Theory, and Public Affairs and Policy Analysis.

International or local exchanges are an exciting possibility during your third year, and you may also choose to undertake an internship of your choosing, with permission of the undergraduate supervisor. In fourth year, an internship with the Washington Center is an option for consideration.

High school (secondary school) graduation is the normal minimum level of study to be considered for admission to the first year of an undergraduate program at Carleton University. If you have undertaken studies at a recognized college or university following your secondary school graduation, we will assess these post-secondary studies as your basis of admission, as your highest level and most recent studies. Academic performance in your previous studies is the main determining factor for admission.

You will need to provide transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, showing all courses undertaken and grades achieved, as well as any registration in courses in progress. If you have completed one year or less of post-secondary studies, please also submit your secondary school transcripts and any graduation exam results. If an application is submitted while studies are still in progress, we will review for an early/conditional offer.

You do not need to apply as a transfer student the application process is the same for all
Advanced standing (transfer credit) If you have taken university courses and wish to be considered for credit, please be sure to submit official course descriptions (and translations if necessary) from your university detailing content of the courses completed. These will be assessed on a course by course basis for credit. An audit will be provided after admission showing the Carleton credits granted.


Admission Requirements
International Baccalaureate
You will need the full IB (three standard [SL] and three higher level [HL] subjects), with a minimum of 28 points (please note that some programs are more competitive, and will require higher scores).
You may have one subject with a grade of 3, provided it is offset by a grade of 5 or better. Prerequisite subjects must have a grade of 4 or better.
IB students may be awarded advanced standing (transfer) credit for HL subjects with a grade of 5 or better subject to the discretion of the appropriate faculty, to a maximum of 3.0 credits.
If you are currently completing the IB in a Canadian high school, please refer to the admission requirements and application deadlines for your province.

Specific Requirements

Bachelor of Arts
All majors - SL or HL English

Transcripts from your most recent/highest level of education
English as a Second Language (ESL) test score
IELTS (Academic) - 6.5 IELTS (min 6.0 each band)
TOEFL Internet Based (iBT) - 86 (22 in writing and speaking, 20 reading and listening)