Political Studies
Trent’s versatile Political Studies program introduces students to a variety of political topics, while encouraging you to dive deeper into one of three concentrations in world politics, Canadian politics, or political theory.
In small seminars, you’ll sharpen your analytical skills and enhance your understanding of how to make a positive impact in the world as you participate in engaging discussions about democracy, power relations, and relationships between the state, business, and citizens. Define where you stand on issues of local, national, and global importance, building the confidence and skills for success in a variety of careers.
Interested in a career in law? You can also pursue a degree in Political Studies as part of the Trent/Swansea Law Dual Degree program.
Trent’s engaged campus, known for student participation, small classes, and interactive seminars, will have you defining your voice on local, national and international issues and engaging in dialogue as part of a close-knit community of scholars.
Trent's paid co-op is an opportunity for you to gain work-integrated experiential learning that will help you get a head start on your career. The Political Studies co-op assists graduating students in achieving a competitive edge while generating experience within a wide range of sectors.
Specifically, paid co-op gives you a chance to obtain 12 months of practical experience on the job, develop or enhance technical skills, explore career options, network with a variety of individuals and organizations, learn from mentors, enhance communication and presentation skills, and develop technical writing skills.
Traditionally there are three co-op work terms of paid employment, each four months long, 35 hours/week, giving students the opportunity to manage well-defined special projects at an organization. With the Political Studies co-op, students are encouraged to combine two work terms back-to-back creating an eight-month opportunity with one employer.
- Join Trent's Leadership & Democracy Lab, researching, writing, and presenting on democracy, global affairs, and political leadership
- Travel abroad with Trent’s inaugural Jarislowsky Chair in Trust & Political Leadership for the U.K. Summer Democracy Experience and connect with senior politicians and scholars, observe live debates, and explore global policy and constitutional change firsthand
- Conduct original research with real-world impact through community engagement projects or research practicums
- Shape public policy locally by collaborating with municipal leaders in a variety of field placements
#1 undergraduate university in Ontario
92% Trent Grads employed within six months
#1 undergrad university in Ontario for student services and student awards
Requirements
If you are coming straight from high school in Ontario or are a recent grad, the general admission requirements are:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program specific prerequisites
- A minimum 70% overall final average
- ENG 4U with a minimum of 60%
Program requirements for admittance into co-op:
- A minimum 80% overall final average
Requirements
Students from across Canada can use their grades from their home province to apply to Trent.
Requirements
International students from outside Canada can apply based on the curriculum of their home country.
Requirements
Mature students can apply to Trent based on previous education and professional or volunteer experience.
Requirements
With many transfer agreements and flexible pathway options, Trent University makes it easy for students to make the most of the credits you have already earned.
Whether you're graduating from an Ontario high school, looking to study in Canada, or training for a second career, Trent has clear pathways for students to apply and be admitted to study at either of our campuses.
- Community Development
- Evaluation & Research
- Media & Communications
- Policy Analysis
- Public Service