Bachelor Of Arts (Honours) - Political Science (DAO) at Ontario Tech University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-07-02

Program overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Science program at Ontario Tech University is designed to implement strategies for creating sustainable community development policies. It focuses on improving quality of life while addressing critical community justice and planning issues. This program delves into a variety of topics, including climate change, social justice, and international development, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the interrelations among communities, nations, and social movements. The interdisciplinary approach draws from various fields such as political science, sociology, and economics, equipping students with the skills necessary to navigate complex societal challenges.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Science program is structured to be completed in four or five years of full-time study. The program offers a variety of experiential learning opportunities, including:

Co-op placements
Internships
Practicums
Research studies
Undergraduate thesis

Students can also opt for a double major in Legal Studies and Political Science, allowing them to earn degrees in both fields within the standard timeframe. The program is delivered in-class at the Downtown Oshawa campus, with a September start date. This structure ensures that students receive a well-rounded education while gaining practical experience in their field.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Science program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Direct-entry co-op program, allowing students to apply for co-op positions directly through their application.
Full-time, paid co-op positions that provide students with valuable industry experience and a steady income.
Opportunities for internships and practicums that connect students with community organizations.
A limited number of fourth-year students can participate in a practicum, which includes 100 hours of fieldwork and in-class seminars.
Access to over 175 organizations for placement opportunities, ensuring diverse experiences.

These experiences not only prepare students for their future careers but also help them build a professional network in their field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Science program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Community Outreach Coordinator: Work with organizations to develop programs that engage and support community members.
Criminal Justice Analyst: Analyze data and policies related to the criminal justice system to improve practices and outcomes.
Foreign Service Officer: Represent Canada in international relations, working on diplomatic missions and negotiations.
Government Administrator: Manage and implement government programs and policies at various levels of government.
Human Rights Advocate: Work with non-profit organizations to promote and protect human rights locally and globally.

Other potential career options include roles as a Legal Analyst, Policy Analyst, Public Outreach Worker, and Social Policy Researcher. Graduates are also well-prepared for further studies in Social Science and Humanities disciplines.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Ontario Tech University official website

Last updated on 2026-07-02

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Political Science program, the following academic requirements apply:

General Requirements:

Successful completion of secondary education with a recognized qualification.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

International Students:

Vietnam: Applicants must present the Upper Secondary School Graduation Diploma – Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Phổ Thông Trung Học. Additionally, they are required to submit both their academic transcript indicating all subjects taken and grades achieved, along with an official copy of their diploma or graduation certificate. If documents are issued in a language other than English, notarized literal English translations must also be provided.
Other Asian Countries: Similar requirements apply, where applicants must provide their academic transcripts and graduation certificates, along with notarized translations if necessary.

It is important to note that applicants are encouraged to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding the application process and requirements.

Language Requirements

If you are from a country where English is not the first language of instruction, you must demonstrate English proficiency to be eligible for admission. You can demonstrate proficiency with one of the following:

Formal full-time study in English

Successfully completing at least three years of formal, full-time study (no less than three academic level courses per semester) at a secondary or post-secondary institution where the language of instruction and examination is English. The minimum three-year requirement does not include time enrolled in an English as a Second Language program or an unapproved English for Academic Purposes program.

English test

Ontario Tech will accept the following English tests with the minimum scores listed. Please note that the test date must be within two years of the desired start date and results must be sent to Ontario Tech Admissions directly from the provider unless they can be verified online.

Cambridge English - Advanced: Minimum score of 180 with no band lower than 170.
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): Minimum score of 70 with no sub-score below 60.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 120 (Education and Nursing programs require a total score of 130).
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): IELTS Academic score of 6.5 with no sub-score less than 6.0 (Education and Nursing programs require an overall score of 7.0).
Oxford ELLT (Digital or Global): Minimum score of 7 (Education and Nursing programs require a score of 8).
- Register through our link above and use code "OTU10" for 10 per cent off.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Minimum score of 58.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): The university's TOEFL code is 7178. We accept the Internet-based test (iBT) with the following minimum score requirements. The iBT Home Edition and Paper-delivered test may also be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
- Tests written before January 21, 2026: Total score of 83 (Education and Nursing programs require a total score of 87) with minimum Listening: 20; Reading: 20; Speaking: 19; and Writing: 20 section scores.
- Tests written after January 21, 2026: Overall 4.5 with no section score below 4.0.

Additional options

Applicants who are following the IB curriculum can satisfy their English language proficiency (ELP) requirements by presenting an IB certificate or diploma with a minimum grade of 4 in IB English A.
Enrolling in an EAP program with one of our partner institutions.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!