As explained by Aristotle back in the 4th Century B.C., “politics” are dealings with the structure, organization, and administration of a state. Therefore, Political Science – as we know it today – is the study of power, authority and governance in human affairs.

Political scientists examine a wide range of factors, including social, economic, cultural, historical, and geographical, that generate conflicts both within and between different societies – and then analyze the various ways in which such conflicts are resolved. If this sounds like something that interests you, then a degree concentrating on Political Science and/or International Relations may prove a good fit.

Or, if you’re more interested in the direct implementation of development strategies – concentrating on projects in such areas as rural development, poverty alleviation, gender-based violence, water and sanitation, post-conflict rehabilitation, or universal education – a degree in International Development Studies may be the best option. Particularly effective when paired with studies in another area (some popular choices being Economics, Political Science, Communications, Women’s Studies, Sociology, or a language such as French or Spanish), an ‘IDS’ degree can lead to a wide range of exciting international careers. A few examples of possible career routes for those with IDS degrees include studying or working with either UN development branches (UNDP, UNICEF, etc), government agencies like CIDA (the Canadian International Development Agency), or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as Oxfam, The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), or Save the Children. Luckily, the types of possible employers out there are just as diverse as the range of projects such graduates can pursue!

Some related degree options:

• Bachelor of Arts in International Development Studies (SMU)
• Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Development Studies (Windsor)
• Bachelor of Political Science (UVic)
• BA Honours or BA General degree, with specialization in IDS and/or Political Science (Guelph)
• Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Political Science (Algoma)
• Bachelor of Arts in Women and Gender Studies (SMU)