For Current Students

Politics has been described as "Who Gets What, When, How, Why" in society. The study of politics, or Political Science, is one of the oldest academic disciplines known to humankind. In Ancient Greece political philosophers concerned themselves with creating a good society, and balancing justice with order. Today Political Scientists still study these matters, but the discipline has grown to encompass many aspects of government, such as parliaments, electoral processes and constitutions; or external relations, including issues of war, peace and poverty.

Political Science is important to society because, in an age of complex government, an educated citizenry is the best safeguard for democracy. Political Science is valuable for individuals who want to know more about the values, laws, institutions and policy mechanisms that govern their lives in society, and as well, the differences between their system of government and those in other countries. Beyond this, Political Science is an especially useful preparation for students who wish to pursue careers in teaching, law, public service or business

Dalhousie University's approach to Political Science is a blend of traditional and modern analysis. The Department offers work in classical political philosophers; and most classes emphasize government structure and policy making, including domestic public administration and foreign policy. Other classes deal with political behavior such as public opinion or interest group activity. Classes in modern research methods, including quantitative analysis, are also offered.