Political Studies (Co-op Available)
What is power? How do power relations and structures shape Canadian society and societies around the world? What is the relationship between states, businesses, nongovernmental organizations, social movements/protests and citizens? Explore these and many other questions in Political Studies at Trent. Here, you will sharpen your analytical skills and learn how to make a positive impact in the world. Focus your political exploration on Canadian politics, world politics or political theory. Immerse yourself in understanding political structures and systems, as you engage in lively debates and discussions alongside sought-after experts in globalization, populism, international relations, and political theory.
Degrees Offered:
- B.A.
- B.A. (Honours)
- B.A. Co-op (Peterborough Only)
Locations:
- Peterborough
Specializations:
Resume Boosters:
- Explore your strengths and career interests, and graduate with 12 months of work experience (and income) through the new four-year competitive co-op stream, giving you the edge for future career success
- Engage in real-world research through a community engagement project, field placement, or research practicum, as you develop reports, implement surveys, or complete literature reviews alongside expert faculty
- G Gain practical experience through the Public Policy Field Placement course – an opportunity to apply your skills and consider career paths as you work part-time for a nonprofit organization or government office
- Go global and internationalize your degree (and experience) through a study abroad opportunity
- Pursue a directed study or fourth-year thesis as you work alongside expert faculty to develop your own course syllabus tailored to your unique political interests
- Connect with leading experts and eminent scholars hosted through the Elaine Stavro Distinguished Visiting Scholar in Theory, Politics & Gender Studies

"Don't be afraid to get involved - and look at all of the opportunities that are before you. There are limitless opportunities."
Career Paths:
Featured
International Relations Specialist
Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers conduct research, develop policy and implement or administer programs in areas such as consumer affairs, employment, home economics, immigration, law enforcement, corrections, human rights, housing, labour, family services, foreign aid and international development. They are employed by government departments and agencies, industry, hospitals, educational institutions, consulting establishments, professional associations, research institutes, non-government organizations and international organizations or they may be self-employed.
Career Opportunities
- Policy Analyst
- Government Relations Specialist
- Lawyer
- Journalist
- International Relations Specialist
- Communications Manager
- Media Consultant
- Entrepreneur
- NGO Staffer
- Public Relations Professional
- Ministerial Assistant
- Lobbyist
- Political Researcher and Consultant
- Political Campaign Organizer
- Health & Social Policy Researcher
- Campaign Manager
Popular Courses:
- Politics & Power in the Global Age
- Green Politics
- Globalization and Politics of Work
- Populism in the Twenty-first Century
- Causes of War
- Urban Governance in Canada
- Gender, Diversity and Politics in Canada
- Political Imagination
- Power & Resistance
- Law & Constitutional Issues

Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program specific prerequisites
Program Requirements:
- A minimum 70% overall final average
- ENG 4U with a minimum of 60%
Co-op Requirements:
- A minimum 80% overall final average
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