Skills Developed through a Political Science Degree

A background in Political Science ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Political Science Skills

• Knowledge of the actions of governments, political parties and the courts, as well as political movements and power relations in everyday life
• A comprehensive understanding of critical issues facing our world and the political context in which they exist
• The ability to conceptualize and think critically about crucial dimensions of political life, both values and processes

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

• The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements
• An ability to organize, understand and analyze new sources of information and to apply novel forms of technology or new information to different professional settings and tasks
• Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
• The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
• The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas

Management and Teamwork

• The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project's intended and successful end result
• Logical thinking skills and the ability to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
• Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
• The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.

• Canadian Political Science Association
• Canadian Council on Social Development
• Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives
• Canadian Policy Research Networks
• The Council of Canadians
• International Political Science Association