Politics impacts all aspects of life, and importantly, quality of life. In Political Studies at Trent, you will find yourself debating and exploring ideas around democracy and global politics as you examine power relations and relationships between the state, business, and citizens. It is exciting and enlightening to learn how these relationships influence each of our lives, and more broadly, political, economic, and social change nationally and internationally. Our small class sizes and interactive student-professor relationships build confidence, skills, and knowledge for a variety of careers.
Degree Type
- B.A.
- B.A. (Honours)
The Department of Political Studies offers courses in four areas of investigation: International Law and Policy, Political Theory, Public Policy, and World Politics:
International Law and Policy
The specialization provides a foundation in international legal frameworks, political institutions, and policy processes that shape economic and social systems.
Through an interdisciplinary approach, students will gain deeper insights into the political and policy dynamics that influence influencing human rights and global governance. Students will explore the role of law and human rights institutions in shaping international relations and justice. Experiential learning opportunities, including policy-focused courses and placements, enable students to apply legal and political analysis to pressing international and global challenges, preparing them for careers in law, diplomacy, public policy, and international organizations.
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Politcal Theory
The Specialization in Political Theory is open to students in the Political Studies program.
In this specialization, you will explore how influential thinkers from the past and present develop and challenge big ideas that shape political life and our understanding of the world. Through close engagement with political texts, literature, film, and theatre, you will examine core questions about power, justice, freedom, and belonging, while learning how theory helps us interpret social and political realities across time and place.
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Public Policy
The Specialization in Public Policy is designed for students in Political Studies who are interested in careers in the public service, think tanks, and non-governmental and inter-governmental organizations.
Public policy is about developing concrete solutions to practical problems. This is an extremely political process as different actors – including politicians, bureaucrats, business, interest groups, and citizens – have very different ideas about what the problems are and which solutions will best address them. The Specialization in Public Policy gives Political Studies students the opportunity to examine different aspects of this process.
One of the key aims of the Specialization is to offer students experience in the practice of developing public policy. It will be of interest to students considering careers in the public service, think tanks, and non-governmental and inter-governmental organizations.
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World Politics
The Specialization in World Politics is open to students in the Political Studies program.
Develop expertise in foreign policy, world trade, power relations, and civil unrest while gaining a deeper understanding of how global systems and conflicts shape international affairs. This specialization prepares you for careers in cross-border relations, international agencies, government organizations, and NGOs by building strong analytical, research, and policy-oriented skills applicable to complex global challenges.
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The Department of Political Studies also runs a Joint Major in International Political Economy.
Find more about the courses we offer using our Academic Calendar.