Program Overview

Introduction to the Master's Program

The Master of Arts (MA) program in Political Science at the University of British Columbia (UBC) Vancouver is a one-year scholarly program designed to prepare students for academic or non-academic careers in a wide range of political science subfields. With flexibility in areas of concentration, students can explore the discipline of political science at an advanced level and assess whether to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Political Science or a non-academic career in government, international organizations, or non-governmental organizations.

Program Overview

The program welcomes around 25 students each year. The MA program offers students the opportunity to explore the discipline of political science at an advanced level, with a great deal of flexibility in areas of concentration.

MA Co-op Program

The MA Co-op program is available for students who wish to gain practical experience in their field of study.

Careers after the MA

Many MA graduates have gone on to pursue both academic and non-academic careers. Approximately one-third of MA graduates have gone on to pursue a PhD, with many being offered admission at domestic and international institutions, including:

• University of British Columbia
• Brown University
• University of California San Diego
• Cambridge University
• Duke University
• John Hopkins University
• University of Michigan
• Northwestern University
• Queen’s University
• University of Toronto
• University of Wisconsin

MA graduates have also gone on to careers in policy, politics, and non-governmental organizations, working as policy analysts, planners, data analysts, researchers, and consultants. They have been employed by government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector employers, including:

• United Nations Development Program
• International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement
• Statistics Canada
• Institute for Canadian Citizenship
• Public Services and Procurement Canada
• Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
• First Nations Health Authority
• City of Vancouver
• Royal Bank of Canada

MA Thesis

The MA thesis is a research paper modelled after a published journal article, typically between 8,000 and 12,000 words.

Thesis Planning

The thesis will typically originate as a research paper in a graduate seminar and undergo revision under the direction of a Political Science faculty member.

Thesis Topic Selection

The subject matter and orientation of the thesis must be within the generally recognized boundaries of Political Science. Students should consult Department members for suggestions on possible thesis topics.

Thesis Supervision

Once an acceptable thesis topic has been outlined, a MA student must identify and secure agreement from an appropriate faculty member to serve as supervisor of the thesis. The Supervisor will be a person with special interest and competence in the field of research being undertaken.

Research Areas

The Department of Political Science has award-winning scholars who make a global impact across the full range of research areas in political science.

Admissions

The program requirements and application process for the MA program in Political Science are available for review.

Graduate Resources

Information on graduate studies at UBC and graduate resources are available for viewing.