Programs

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Arts: Political Science (3-Year)

Number of credits required from Athabasca University: 30 credits.

Maximum credit awarded in this program for prior learning through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) processes: 9 credits. (See the PLAR website for more information, http://prior-learning.athabascau.ca/.)

Program Learning Outcomes

As a result of completing this program, students should be able to

distinguish the various sub-disciplines, major themes, and analytical techniques in political science
categorize interactions between the individual, the state and other institutions of governance, public affairs and public policy
anticipate human cultural and political variability both within Canada and the global community, with an attendant appreciation of others’ viewpoints and cultures, attitudes, values, and practices
recognize the nature and sources of power and authority
appraise the sources of societal conflict and how they can be resolved by political means
situate contemporary events in broader institutional, political and social contexts
compare the Canadian system of government to those in other countries
describe the nature of change in the global political community, and the complex character of processes such as globalization
think critically and analytically, reason logically and communicate effectively about politics
study, learn, conduct research and communicate effectively in an on-line environment
discuss major trends and issues of debate within the political science discipline
plan, conduct, interpret and communicate the results of original research using basic research methods

Program Goals

The program aims to

provide a knowledge base that will prepare students to successfully complete graduate studies in political science or related fields
prepare students to function as critically aware citizens who can understand and participate in the process of governing at all levels
provide students who intend to pursue careers in, or who are already working in, institutions involved in governance with the theoretical, communicative and practical skills (e.g., research skills) to work successfully in those environments
prepare students for career work in areas directly associated with political life, such as public service, law, journalism, public relations, policy analysis, research, education, elected office, party organizations, campaign management and polling

Possible Career Options

elected official
campaign manager or pollster
public servant
local government administrator
policy analyst
research specialist
lawyer
journalist
public relations specialist
teacher
academic

Possible Further Education Options

At Athabasca University

At Other Educational Institutions*

Political Science (MA and PhD)
Public Administration and Governance (MA and PhD)
Education (Bachelor/Master)
Law (LLB or JD)
Journalism (BA or MA)

*Some universities will not accept a three-year degree, and education options may require advanced degrees, further training or experience. For help identifying more options, visit http://www.athabascau.ca/counselling.

These are not extensive lists. Some career and education options may require advanced degrees, further training or experience. For help identifying more options, visit http://www.athabascau.ca/counselling/.

For program information, visit http://www.athabascau.ca/programs/.

For contact information, visit http://www.athabascau.ca/main/chairs.php.

Updated March 25, 2009