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Welcome To McMaster Political Science: Undergraduate Programs

Hear From Our Faculty

We start with flexibility. You begin in Social Sciences I, sample courses in first year, and choose your major when it clicks.

Political Science offers a practical, supportive environment – where you’ll learn to communicate clearly, think critically, and work well with others.

Watch our overview video featuring Greg Flynn and Andrea Lawlor as they explain what makes McMaster’s approach practical and career-focused.

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Why Choose McMaster Political Science?

  • Explore before you commit: First-year Social Sciences is your safe space to try different courses.
  • Pathways that fit: Standard Honours Political Science, combined degrees, co-op and specializations in Public Law & Judicial Studies and Global Citizenship.
  • Small, supportive upper-year classes: Many seminars cap at 25–50 students.
  • Real-world evaluation: Essays and policy writing, simulations, public speaking, and teamwork.
  • Career-ready skills: Communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and responsible AI use.

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Careers: Beyond Law

Our graduates thrive in:

  • Policy & public service (provincial/federal)
  • Marketing, communications, HR, program evaluation
  • Non-profit & advocacy
  • International organizations (e.g., UN agencies, World Food Programme)
  • Teaching (many pursue teachers’ college)
  • Graduate studies (MA) – increasingly common for competitive government roles

How We Teach: Skills Employers Want

  • Writing you’ll actually use: Policy briefs, short-form analysis, and clear arguments
  • Public speaking & simulations: Practice communicating ideas under pressure
  • Teamwork: Group projects build collaboration and leadership skills
  • Responsible AI use: Learn to use tools like ChatGPT ethically and effectively – never a shortcut, always a skill
  • Critical thinking: Consistent expectations from first assignment to final exam